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Manchester United have officially signed Raphael Varane from Real Madrid. The multiple time UEFA Champions League winner and World Cup champion had to delay his arrival at Carrington due to Covid protocol, but finished his quarantine period and completed his medical Wednesday evening. He was then introduced at Old Trafford just ahead of kickoff against Leeds United in Manchester United’s Premier League opener, holding up his new no. 19 shirt.
Man Utd signing of Raphael Varane now fully complete & should be announced by club imminently. 28yo France int’l defender joins #MUFC from #RMFC on four-year contract for around £34m + add-ons. Set to be presented on pitch shortly @TheAthleticUK #MUNLEE https://t.co/8nnSf7eIIs
— David Ornstein (@David_Ornstein) August 14, 2021
Varane arrives from Real Madrid for a relatively bargain fee of about £34m, and offers an elite, seasoned partner for Harry Maguire at the heart of defense. His and Jadon Sancho’s arrival has brought much excitement to the Old Trafford faithful, as well as raises expectations for the return of silverware after a four year drought.
The deal for Varane becomes even more team-friendly with the confirmation from David Ornstein that the transfer fee paid to Real Madrid will be spread out over a number of years. Given the effects of the Covid-19 global pandemic it was unsure how the club’s finances would be impacted, but they’ve shown an eagerness and ability to make big moves within those restraints.
Varane will join the club for training on Monday, and will be registered for United’s next Premier League fixture at Southampton.