Manchester United have announced that Raphaël Varane will leave Old Trafford at the end of the season after three years with the club. Varane arrived in a £40 million ($50.2m) deal from Real Madrid in 2021 and has made 93 appearances for the club. He was a key part of Erik ten Hag's team last season as United finished third in the Premier League and won the Carabao Cup.
However, Varane has struggled with injuries this season and has not featured since the 4-3 defeat to Chelsea on April 4. Despite this, Ten Hag had expressed that Varane could still potentially play a part in the FA Cup final against Manchester City at Wembley on May 25.
Manchester United decided against triggering a one-year extension in Varane's contract, which would have kept him at the club until 2025. The 31-year-old, who won the Champions League four times during his tenure at Real Madrid, has been linked with a move to Saudi Arabia or a return to his former club, Lens.
Sources have indicated that Manchester United are actively seeking a new centre-back in the upcoming summer transfer window. The club has shown interest in Fulham's Tosin Adarabioyo, who is set to be available on a free transfer in the summer. However, Newcastle United is reportedly leading the race for Adarabioyo's signature.
In a statement shared on social media, Varane expressed his gratitude to the Manchester United supporters, acknowledging the special experience of playing for the club and the passionate fanbase. He highlighted the emotional connection he has developed with the club and its fans, emphasizing the unique atmosphere at Old Trafford.
Varane also expressed optimism for the future of Manchester United, citing the club's new ownership and their clear plan and strategy moving forward. He extended an invitation to the fans to join him at Old Trafford for the last home game of the season, anticipating an emotional farewell.
