Manchester United have received a potentially significant boost in their pursuit of Real Madrid defender Raphael Varane.

What's the story?

According to Goal journalist Mario Cortegana, the Spanish giants have accepted that the 28-year-old is likely to leave the club this summer and are now waiting for a formal offer from the Red Devils.

The report claims that Real Madrid made a contract offer to Varane ahead of the European Championship, but the France international delayed his response to the proposal as he wanted to concentrate on playing for his nation.

Despite Les Bleus being eliminated in the last 16 at Euro 2020, the centre-back has not provided the capital club with any update over his future, leading the Bernabeu hierarchy to believe that an exit is imminent.

Fans will be buzzing

News that Varane has not accepted Real Madrid's offer of a new deal must have United supporters buzzing with excitement.

The centre of defence has been a problem position for many years at Old Trafford, and bringing in a world-class operator will provide many with genuine hope that their issues will be resolved. United conceded 44 goals in 38 Premier League games last season, the highest total compared to their top-four rivals.

Although Varane will not be able to transform the club's defensive unit on his own, he should be able to make a significant difference and help Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's side continue their progression.

The Norwegian guided United to second place in the Premier League in 2020/21, but a defeat in the Europa League final extended the club's longest trophy drought in more than 30 years.

However, with the addition of former Borussia Dortmund winger Jadon Sancho set to be completed in the coming days and Varane potentially joining him, silverware could be about to return to the red half of Manchester.

The Real Madrid man has established himself as one of the best players in his position over the last decade, winning four Champions Leagues, three La Liga titles and one Copa del Rey during his time in Spanish football.

Varane's arrival at United would be a clear indication of the progressive path on the club is now embarking, and the Old Trafford faithful will surely be urging the hierarchy to get this deal over the line.

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