Former Chelsea captain John Terry believes Raphael Varane will have no difficulties adapting to life in the Premier League, as he edges closer to completing his move to Manchester United.
Varane, who is 28, is on the cusp of completing a big-money move to Old Trafford after undergoing a medical earlier this week, after United reached an agreement with Real Madrid to sign him more than two weeks ago.
However, despite United's best efforts, the deal has not yet officially been completed, meaning he will play no part in Saturday's Premier League opener against Leeds United, with manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer confirming on Friday that the deal is not yet 100 per cent done.
Nevertheless, the deal will, all being well, soon get over the line and Terry, who left his role as Aston Villa assistant boss last month, is backing the France international to hit the ground running at Old Trafford.
"I think it’s a natural one for people to say that it will take time for players to adapt," Terry told Stadium Astro.
"But when you’ve played at the level and kind of competition that he’s played at – winning the World Cup, Champions Leagues – he’ll hit the ground running I’m sure of that.
"I think from the outside watching Man United from afar, that’s been the key area I think they’ve been missing over the last few years so it’s good to see them dip into the market and get such a top player."
As well as backing Varane to soon settle into the groove and adapt to the cut and thrust of the Premier League, Terry has likened the partnership the Frenchman and Harry Maguire are likely to strike up to that of the one he and Ricardo Carvalho experienced at Chelsea, as well as insisting that Varane is a "top, top player."
"I think him and Harry will have a great relationship together. It kind of reminds me of myself and Carvalho, if I’m honest," Terry continued.
"The kind of Rolls-Royce that Varane is and how good Harry is on the ball and aggressive as well. So I think they’ll be a great combination together and, like I say, it will definitely strengthen them moving forward.
"But Varane is a top, top player and I’m looking forward to seeing how he does in the league this year."
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