Manchester United target Raphael Varane has praised Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho amid links that both clubs are after the Real Madrid star, according to reports from the Express.
The 22-year-old emerged as a defensive candidate for the two Premier League giants following claims that he was unhappy with his limited role at the Bernabeu.
He is currently regarded as a backup to both Pepe and Sergio Ramos, with manager Rafa Benitez unable to guarantee him regular playing time.
United looks to have reignited their interest in the player as they are said to be preparing a swoop for his services next summer, but could be dealt a slight blow after Varane’s praise for Mourinho.
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"During my second year at Madrid, Jose Mourinho gave me a kick up the backside," Varane told Le Journal du Dimanche.
"I wasn't doing well, I wasn't managing to do what he wanted me to out on the pitch.
"So he chided me, saying, 'Why don't you run in training?'
"My first reaction was to mutter, 'Oh come on...' But I knew he was right, I had more to give.
"Mourinho doesn't need to give long speeches.
"He's direct and to the point. What he said to me was for my own good. Without regular pressure like that, I can tend to rest on my laurels."
The Blues are likely to step up their chase for a new centre-back next season as a potential replacement for John Terry after missing out on Everton star John Stones throughout the summer window.
Red Devils boss Louis van Gaal will also be keen to add another defender into his ranks after seeing Jonny Evans leave to join West Bromwich Albion late last month.
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