Manchester United have reportedly made direct contact with Real Madrid over the potential signing of defender Raphael Varane.

What's the story?

According to well-known journalist and transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, the Red Devils have returned to the negotiating table with the Spanish giants over the future of their World Cup-winning centre-back.

He tweeted: "Manchester United are now back in direct contact with Real Madrid for Raphaël Varane, after opening talks weeks ago. Negotiations on personal terms not an issue. Man United confirmed their intention to sign Varane - official bid in once they’ll know Real final position."

Fans will be buzzing

News that United have made contact with Madrid over the services of Varane will surely have the club's supporters buzzing.

Question marks have remained over the likes of Victor Lindelof, Eric Bailly and Axel Tuanzebe in recent years as they failed to showcase their long-term suitability alongside Harry Maguire in the heart of defence.

Therefore, adding a player of Varane's calibre will be seen as a major coup by the Old Trafford outfit's hierarchy, and his arrival would spark fresh hope of a title tilt next season.

The France international has established himself as one of the world's best central defenders throughout his time at the Bernabeu, winning four Champions League crowns, three La Liga titles and one Copa del Rey.

Although his presence in the United starting XI would be no guarantee of silverware, Varane would certainly boost Ole Gunnar Solsjaer's chances of claiming his first trophy while in charge of the 20-time English champions.

As per WhoScored, the 6 ft 2 beast recorded 3.5 clearances per league match last term and 0.6 blocks, bettering all of his teammates who played over two games on both metrics.

His addition would finally provide United with a centre-back pairing of a similar ilk to famous duos of the club's past.

United have founded their incredible success from the solid foundations provided by Jaap Stam and Ronny Johnsen, Steve Bruce and Gary Pallister and Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic.

That solid base has been missing from the red half of Manchester for several years now, but Varane could change all that by forming a duo with captain Harry Maguire.

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