Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has conceded that Raphael Varane's transfer from Real Madrid to Manchester United is still not over the line.
The Red Devils manager says the Frenchman has not yet trained with the squad as United prepare to face Leeds United at Old Trafford on Saturday in their Premier League opener.
Over 75,000 are expected be inside the stadium but they will not seeing the four-time Champions League and one-time World Cup winner in action.
Solskjaer stated in his pre-match press conference that his lengthy isolation period has delayed the deal, which will see the centre-back join the Red Devils from Madrid for £34.2million.
"He hasn't trained with us and we haven't dotted over all the Is and crossed the Ts," Solskjaer admitted.
"Things happen and things take time. Unfortunately with the isolation, it's not 100 per cent done yet," he revealed.
"I can probably say that he won't be [involved in the Leeds match] because he hasn't trained with us.
Asked what the hold up was, Solskjaer explained: "It always happens that there's little things.
"The big hold up was the isolation and quarantine but he's in Manchester.
"It'll be done soon," the 48-year-old assured.
July 28 was the date of the announcement but supporters will have to continue being patient.
On the other hand, United's other new signing, Jadon Sancho, is set to feature against Leeds.
Solskjaer stated: "Jadon is going to be involved. He's had a good week."
However, even Sancho's settling in period has not gone to plan, with the winger suffering illness as he arrived for pre-season training after his holiday following the European Championships.
"Unfortunately he was ill after his holiday so he's missed out on a few days of training.
"I can't tell you if he is going to start, though."
With Edinson Cavani granted extended leave in Uruguay and Marcus Rashford undergoing surgery on his shoulder, the Red Devils' attacking options are somewhat limited.
Anthony Martial is in line to make the match day squad after missing the final stretch of last season through injury but speculation of a departure has surfaced in recent days.
Quizzed on that, his manager affirmed: "I wouldn't be surprised if other teams targeted Anthony because he is a very, very good player.
"I have no plans whatsoever for him to play against us.
Anthony's come back back, strong and hungry with a determination to prove his fitness and his quality."
Solskjaer also backed him to improve on a 2020-21 campaign which saw him score just four Premier League goals.
"Of course, last season was a difficult and disappointing one for him.
"You can see that grit between his teeth again, he is up for the challenge," stressed the United boss.
"He's a Man United player and we are happy that we have him.
"He's proven doubters wrong so many times."
