Manchester United and Chelsea have been dealt a blow in their hopes of signing Real Madrid defender Raphael Varane.
Varane has seen his playing time at the Bernabeu limited by manager Carlo Ancelotti’s preference of Sergio Ramos and Pepe in the defence.
However, Varane remains content at the club, and the club insist he is staying.
Zinedine Zidane, fellow Franchman of Varane and currently coach of Real Madrid Castilla, Real’s B team, said of Varane’s future:
“There are a lot of players out there, but I’m really happy for Varane. He’s a fantastic player and is Real’s future.
“He has to be patient (to get first-team football). Always staying patient is hugely important.”
Reports indicate Ancelotti is set to launch a £50m raid on French side Paris St-Germain for David Luiz, and is ready to let Varane go to make room.
United and Chelsea have both been linked with £20m bids for Varane.
Steve Osborne @Pack3rNa7ion
