Real Madrid star Raphael Varane is looking to leave the Bernabeu this summer according to reports in Spain.
The centre-half will enter the final year of his contract at the end of the season and is yet to agree on new terms.
That could force Los Blancos to cash in with Manchester United keen on the Frenchman.
Varane has been at Madrid since 2011 but is now ready to seek a new challenge, reports AS.
Madrid are still hopeful that they can persuade the 27-year-old to stay, but will allow him to leave should he formally request an exit.
They also accept that money is not his motivation as he looks to test himself in a new country.
The Red Devils are looking to add a new centre-half this summer as they seek a partner for Harry Maguire.
Varane is one of the leading names on their shortlist as are Villarreal’s Pau Torres and Sevilla’s Jules Kounde.
United could negotiate a favourable fee for the World Cup winner such is his proximity to the expiration of his contract.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has played Eric Bailly and Victor Lindelof alongside his captain this season, but neither have been able to make the position their own.
Former United man Gary Neville concedes the club's investment in Maguire means they have to build the defence around him and Varane could be the ideal partner.
"They’re not going to turf Maguire out, so you’ve got find a partner for him," he said on Sky Sports.
“That’s got to be somebody of the profile of Bailly.
"Quick, good in the air, strong, can cover Maguire and get them up the pitch. The goalkeeping situation is going to need attending to quite soon too.
“Lindelof struggles in the air. Maguire struggles when the ball is played in behind. They’re each other’s own biggest problem.”
