Man Utd risk backlash for Varane transfer decision after impressing at Liverpool
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Manchester United could risk facing backlash from supporters after reports emerged detailing that Raphael Varane has been put ‘up for sale’. The defender has fallen down the pecking order at Old Trafford this season but impressed against Liverpool on Sunday, guiding his side to a shock 0-0 draw in Merseyside.
United are keen to splash the cash in the January transfer window, with investment at both ends of the pitch anticipated. The Red Devils are desperate to bring in at least one more central defender, as well as another striker to challenge Rasmus Hojlund for the No. 9 spot.
As a result, Erik ten Hag’s side will need to offload several stars in order to raise funds for their spending spree and remain within the boundaries of Financial Fair Play. According to the Daily Mail, United football director John Murtough has recently travelled to Saudi Arabia to try and stir up interest in four players.
Murtough was keen to negotiate deals involving Jadon Sancho, Casemiro, Anthony Martial and Varane, though his trip to the Middle East proved unsuccessful and he will be hoping that other clubs come forward when the transfer window opens next month.
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Although the sporting director’s Saudi venture was viewed as a failure by United, it may have actually been a blessing in disguise. Injuries prompted Ten Hag to call upon the services of Varane over the weekend, and the France international stepped up and led by example alongside Jonny Evans.
The ex-Real Madrid star has been overlooked by his manager for the most part of this season, but when it mattered most Varane provided the United defence with much-needed stability to keep Liverpool at bay.
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United have looked shaky for the majority of the campaign and Varane’s continual absences may have been a significant factor in why his side have conceded 21 goals in 17 Premier League matches. As such, Ten Hag could be tempted to alter his stance on the 30-year-old and retain his services for the foreseeable future.
Keeping Varane would not mean that the Red Devils need to halt their pursuit of a younger defender who will have a long-term future at the club, but rather provide the prospect with a mentor who has competed at the highest level and can provide guidance and experience at a club which is lacking exactly that. It remains to be seen whether United reconsider Varane’s ‘for sale’ status or overlook the excellent display by the four-time Champions League winner.
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