Real Madrid consider shock transfer for Man Utd star as Alaba replacement

Suraj Radia

• 20 Dec 2023 15:25 CST
• 3 min read

Real Madrid could turn to a shock option to replace the injured David Alaba with reports suggesting that the La Liga giants will make a January move for Manchester United star Raphael Varane.

Alaba will endure a significant spell on the sidelines after rupturing his anterior cruciate ligament, leaving Real with just Nacho and Antonio Rudiger as their only fit centre-backs, with Eder Militao also victim to a long-term injury.

Carlo Ancelotti admitted Real would explore their options in January to replace Alaba and BILD reporter Christian Falk has revealed that Varane is allegedly on the shortlist for Los Blancos.

Varane is facing an uncertain future at United, having spent a majority of this season outside of Erik ten Hag’s line-up due to injury and poor form and it was revealed the 30-year-old’s contract is set to expire at the end of the season.

United have an option to extend Varane’s deal for a further season and are expected to exercise it but the Frenchman will be able to sign a pre-contract agreement with a European side from January until any decision is made by the Premier League side.

Ten Hag is said to be keen to keep hold of Varane until the summer but the United manager is open to the defender’s departure if he can be replaced, although his side are not expected to have significant funds available for transfers.

Varane return to fold causes difficulty for Real transfer

Varane featured in United’s recent goalless draw against Liverpool, making his first Premier League start since September, having been dropped after his side’s 3-2 home loss to Galatasaray in early October.

The World Cup winner played just 17 minutes in the league in the subsequent two months but an injury to Harry Maguire forced Ten Hag to bring Varane back into his line-up.

Varane impressed at Anfield upon his return to league action and United are unlikely to sanction his departure mid-season unless an offer proved too good to turn down and allowed the club the funds to sign a replacement.

Real, meanwhile would prefer a temporary solution to their injury woes before considering a long-term signing in the summer, meaning a move for Varane may not be feasible unless the player pushes for a move.