Man Utd ‘in advanced talks’ with ‘next Nemanja Vidic’ amid Raphael Varane future on brink

Manchester United are in advanced talks with a player that has been likened to Nemanja Vidic.

As per Sky Sports Germany, United will listen to offers for Raphael Varane in January after deciding to cash in on the defender.

The Frenchman, who joined United from Real Madrid in a £40million deal in 2021, has lost his starting place in Erik ten Hag’s side this season, despite an injury to centre-back partner Lisandro Martinez.

Varane, a World Cup winner, has been overlooked in favour of Harry Maguire, Jonny Evans and Victor Lindelof this term.

Bayern Munich are said to be keen on signing the former Real and Lens star, who is among the highest earners at Old Trafford.

However, Sky Sports Germany claims the Bundesliga giants feel a deal is unrealistic despite United being open to letting Varane go.

Meanwhile, Romanian publication ProSport has reported that United are in advanced talks to sign Genoa defender Radu Dragusin, possibly as a replacement for Varane.

United are allegedly prepared to make a significant financial effort to sign the 21-year-old, who CaughtOffside have compared to Old Trafford legend Vidic.

ProSport added that Erik ten Hag’s side is in advanced negotiations for Dragusin, but Genoa are expected to hold out for the player’s €30million (£25million) release clause.

Dragusin, who tends to operate as a left centre-back role, could help address United’s issues at the back this season.

The Romanian international has helped Genoa keep three clean sheets this term, while also having netted a goal and claimed an assist.

Erik ten Hag was critical of his side’s defending this season after a 3-3 Champions League draw with Galatasaray on Wednesday.

The Dutchman said: "We played so good. So I have to make a compliment to my team but I also have to criticise the team and us as a coaching staff and me as a manager.

"We are not defending well enough, we are leading 3-1 and you can't afford such mistakes because it makes a difference."

United have conceded 33 goals in all competitions this season, the most in any campaign for United after 20 games since 1962/63.

Topics: Football, Manchester United, Nemanja Vidic, Transfers, Premier League

Chris Byfield

Sport journalist with experience writing on football, rugby, boxing and the Olympics. I'm also a Crystal Palace fan. Please don't hold this against me.