Manchester United have had a bid rejected for Real Madrid defender Raphael Varane as the race for his signature hots up this summer.

What's the story?

The Red Devils have been strongly linked with a move for the 28-year-old in recent weeks as Ole Gunnar Solskjaer looks to bolster his first-team squad, and now they've made their first move.

A £50m offer was tabled for Varane, but Los Blancos are holding out for closer to £80m despite the World Cup winner only having one year remaining on his current contract, according to the Manchester Evening News.

United must swoop

United are reportedly still in contact with the Spanish giants over a potential deal, as they hope to reach a compromise over Madrid's asking price.

However, they remain reluctant to match the capital club's £80m valuation, with Varane set to become a free agent next summer.

The France international has been courted by United for many years now, and it seems as though a transfer could finally be on the cards for the 6 ft 2 centre-back.

David Alaba's arrival at the Bernabeu means a replacement is already in place, and Madrid's spiralling debts mean the club's hierarchy are willing to sell one of their prized assets.

A new partner for Harry Maguire at the heart of defence is thought to be high up on Solskjaer's wish list for this summer's transfer window.

Victor Lindelof and Eric Bailly have failed to prove their long-term suitability as United aim to challenge for football's top prizes, meaning Ed Woodward and co. must swoop for Varane this summer.

During his decade-long stint in Spain, the former Lens ace has won four Champions League crowns, three La Liga titles, and one Copa del Rey.

His formidable partnership alongside Sergio Ramos led to ex-Real manager Zinedine Zidane hailing Varane as a "leader", while Gary Neville labeled him an "amazing player."

It's clear that Varane's addition would strengthen United considerably and edge them closer to an elusive 21st top-flight title, and the supporters will surely be hoping that the club's hierarchy can get this deal over the line.

The club's hierarchy simply cannot allow a transfer saga to develop and after failing to secure Jadon Sancho last year, they would risk upsetting the Old Trafford faithful even more.

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