Man Utd spotted major issue in Raphael Varane medical which impacted transfer in a big way

Manchester United reportedly restructured their salary package for Raphael Varane after spotting a concerning issue in his medical.

The defender completed a £34 million move from Real Madrid in August 2021, bringing valuable experience to United's backline.

He played a vital role in the Red Devils coming third in the Premier League last season and winning the Carabao Cup.

Varane's fallen out of favour under Erik ten Hag this term, which started when he was left out of the starting XI for October's 3-0 defeat to Manchester City.

The 30-year-old's struggled to stay fit consistently during his time at Old Trafford and a new report from The Athletic hints at United being aware of his fitness issues.

Varane's knees were highlighted as requiring care when he underwent his medical before signing for United.

It saw the club re-evaluate his basic salary and instead focus on offering bonuses instead of a higher wage.

The ex-France international is still one of United's highest earners, taking home £250,000-per-week.

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Varane is still regarded as a valuable player by United and not a disruptive influence. He's also shown no desire to leave the club, although that could change if his game time remains limited during a packed festive period for United.

Ten Hag's side will play eight games next month, with Jonny Evans and Lisandro Martinez currently out injured.

United legend Rio Ferdinand said earlier this month: "I know that Varane is waking up and his head has got scramblers going off it in, because he's thinking: 'I've banged out five Champions League medals, I've played an integral part in all of those, I've played with the best players in the world, I've come to Man United and Jonny Evans is starting in front of me!'

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"No disrespect [to Evans]. Regardless of what Evans has done, there is no way Jonny Evans was ever in Varane's mind. He would never have been thinking about Jonny Evans."

United return to action against Everton on Sunday afternoon. It's expected Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof will start at the heart of defence.