Chelsea could look to take advantage of Manchester United’s ongoing pursuit of Real Madrid and France centre-back Raphael Varane.
The Blues have been credited with an interest in the 28-year-old, with Spanish outlet Marca saying recently that the west London club have emerged as late contenders to make a move for the Madrid defender.
However, as things stand, Man United are the frontrunners to sign Varane, who sees his contract in the Spanish capital reach its conclusion in 12 months’ time.
The Manchester-based club have reportedly agreed personal terms with Varane over a move, but the two European powerhouses are yet to strike a deal for his services.
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But Marca are reporting that United are in ‘no hurry’ to tie up a deal for the France international, with the Manchester Evening News claiming last month that the Premier League club were working on a £50million bid to lure Varane to Old Trafford, but Los Blancos were holding out for £80million.
Marina Granovskaia could look to take advantage of the uncertainty between United and Madrid and swoop in for Varane.
Thomas Tuchel is said to be chasing a central defender this summer despite having a wealth of options at his disposal.
The Blues could be looking for a long-term replacement for Thiago Silva, who has recently signed a one-year contract extension at Stamford Bridge, and Antonio Rudiger ‘s future remains uncertain.
The Germany defender is now into the final 12 months of his deal in west London and there are no indications yet that a new contract could be signed in the near future.
Malang Sarr is set to be an option for Tuchel next season after the Chelsea defender spent last season on loan at Porto.
But if the Blues could swoop in and steal Varane away from Manchester United, then it would be a real statement as Tuchel looks to turn his side into serious title contenders.
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