Manchester United are in Pole Position to land highly-rated Real Madrid centre back Raphael Varane this summer after the Spanish club named their price.

The Spanish giants side seem to have come round to the idea of losing Varane this summer after they put a £53.3m asking price on his head, alerting many high profile potential suitors across Europe.

Sergio Ramos and Nacho were Zinedene Zidane's preferred starting centre-back at the weekend, with his side running out 3-1 winners over Getafe in the process. As a result, it looks as though Varane could have limited first team opportunities in the rest of this campaign.

The Frenchman, who will almost certainly be involved at this year's World Cup, may well be open to a move should his lack of game time continue, with Manchester United looking to win the race for his signature in the summer.

The Red Devils have looked vulnerable at the back this season, with Phil Jones and Chris Smalling regular starters in the absence of the injury-prone Eric Bially. Mourinho himself has also stated his desire to strengthen in defensive areas this summer and is a known admirer of Varane, after being the man to take him to the Bernabeu when he was in charge.

United's financial clout should hold them in good stead, with a deal looking more likely if Varane continues to miss out on first team football, however Mourinho's side will first have to secure a Champions League place for next season if they are to lure the international defender to Old Trafford.

More on the way out of Madrid as they look to re-build this summer

Real Madrid have been shock strugglers in this season's La Liga, with the Spanish giants currently sitting in third place and 15 points behind leaders Barcelona.

Zinedine Zidane is under pressure this season due to their poor form and will therefore look to rejuvenate his squad this summer, with #LosBlancos expected to have a complete squad overhaul in the summer.

As a result, Varane is one of several players who have been tipped for a transfer away from Madrid this summer, despite him having made 30 appearances in all competitions this season.

Other big names such as Gareth Bale, Dani Ceballos and Isco have also been linked with moves away this summer.

Real are expected to use the funds they gain in the summer, to fund a massive spending spree. However, Manchester United fans may still be worried with it possible that David de Gea will go in the other direction. Other big Premier League names such as Eden Hazard and Harry Kane, have also been linked with a move to Madrid in recent weeks, with Zidane looking to rebuild the Spanish giants.
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