Chelsea are still in the race for Real Madrid defender Raphael Varane who continues to turn down contract talks with the Spanish club, according to Marca.
The 28-year-old’s contract at Santiago Bernabeu will expire next year, and Real Madrid might be in a position where they will have to cash in on him this summer.
Last month, Real Madrid president Florentino Perez said that while they would still try to negotiate a contract with Varane, the defender will be allowed to leave “if he wants to”.
It seems to be the case as Marca claims the €70million (£60m)-rated defender has refused to sign a new deal with the club.
The Spanish media further added that aside from Manchester United, Chelsea have also become a potential summer destination for Varane in recent weeks.
According to an earlier report from The Sun, however, Manchester United are closing in on a £50m deal for Varane, having already negotiated a five-year deal with the player’s representatives.
Chronicle view
Given how quick Manchester United have reportedly made their move, it seems likely that they will beat Chelsea to the defender’s signature.
The Blues might eventually have to sign a new centre-back, but at this point, their priority would be to negotiate new deals with Andreas Christensen, Antonio Rudiger, and Cesar Azpilicueta, whose contracts expire next summer.
If Christensen or Rudiger, in particular, refuses to extend their contract, similar to Real Madrid, Chelsea might also be in a position where they would have to sell.
Chelsea have also been linked with a number of other centre-backs, including Sevilla’s Jules Kounde.
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