Manchester United have reportedly identified their replacement for Raphael Varane.
Back in 2021, Frenchman Varane joined the Old Trafford club from Spanish La Liga giants Real Madrid in a deal worth a reported £41 million.
Since then, he has often been one of the first names on the team sheet when fully fit. Varane has so far made a total of 79 appearances across all competitions for the Red Devils, scoring twice.
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However, United boss Erik ten Hag has opted to play the likes of Harry Maguire and Jonny Evans in recent matches.
Last week, it was reported that United have made the decision not to trigger the automatic one-year extension in Varane’s contract.
With his current deal set to expire at the end of the 23/24 season, Varane can now negotiate a pre-contract with clubs abroad.
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Now, it has been reported that United have identified their replacement for Varane.
According to Italian news outlet Tuttosport, via Football Italia, United are targeting Atalanta centre-back Giorgio Scalvini.
The 20-year-old, who was named Italy’s Golden Boy in 2023 has become one of the most promising players in the country.
This season, Scalvini has nailed down a regular starting spot under manager Gian Piero Gasperini.
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So far in the 23/24 campaign, the defender has made 20 appearances in Serie A, scoring once.
It is believed that United are strongly international in the Italian but Atalanta are reluctant to part ways with Scalvini during the January window.
The report states that Old Trafford club view Scalvini as a potential replacement for Varane, who is believed to be dreaming of making an emotional return to Madrid.
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However, it has been claimed that United could be forced to look elsewhere if Varane leaves during the January window as Scalvini is expected to play for Atalanta for the remainder of the 23/24 campaign.
Featured Image Credit: GettyTopics: Raphael Varane, Manchester United, Manchester United Transfer News & Rumours, Football