Manchester United have reported highlighted Real Madrid defender Raphael Varane as their number one target in 2021.
The Red Devils were linked with a move for the French star during Jose Mourinho’s time in charge at Old Trafford four years ago, but the defender opted to stay in Spain.
According to a report from the Daily Star, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer wants to bring the player to the club as part of a double swoop with RB Leipzig youngster Dayot Upamecano.
However, both stars have instructions their agents they’ll only consider a move to United if Ole secures UCL qualification for the 2021-22 season.
Upamecano has a £36m exit clause inserted in his new deal at the Red Bull Arena, which becomes active at the start of the summer of 2021.
Varane is currently under contract at his side until 2022, but talks over an extension with the defending La Liga champions haven’t progressed in the latest months, increasing speculation he could leave.
Meantime, Manchester United and Manchester City are allegedly both keeping an eye on Mauricio Pochettino’s movements, with the South American still available despite leaving Tottenham Hotspur almost one year ago.
Pochettino has been linked with a host of positions since leaving Spurs in November 2019, but the 48-year-old tactician is yet to commit to a new club.
United are said to be interested in the Argentine amid claims that the club’s executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward would consider sacking manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer if the team’s results don’t improve.
However, according to The Mirror, City have also pinpointed the ex-Espanyol head coach as a potential replacement for Pep Guardiola next summer.
