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Danny Bloomer

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer explains Raphael Varane delay as Leeds United trip looms

Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has delivered an update on their impending new arrival Raphael Varane ahead of next Saturday’s clash with Leeds United.

The Red Devils have agreed a deal to sign the centre back from Real Madrid but are yet to officially announce the signing with the Frenchman still due for a medical.

Varane has reportedly arrived in Manchester to finalise the transfer and according to the Manchester Evening News, they are hoping to make it official by Wednesday of next week.

Speaking to the club’s official website, via the MEN, Solskjaer commented on what has been holding up the deal and when he expects it to be tied up.

He said: “[It’s] Paperwork now, you know, with Brexit and all that.

"I was going to say malarkey but I don’t want to go into politics!

"It’s cost us a few days, with the visa, but he’s been looking after himself. Of course, we’ve got his medical first and hopefully that’s going to be done soon."

Should everything go to plan, a Wednesday announcement would mean that Varane will be available for selection for the season opener with Leeds.

Varane, though, has endured a stop-start pre-season campaign following his exploits with France at EURO 2020 and long rambling transfer saga, meaning he is yet to play a single minute of any of the club’s warm up matches.

This is a similar situation to Manchester United’s other new signing Jadon Sancho, who has also not taken part in any of the club’s pre-season schedule this summer.

Do you want an exclusive pre-season Leeds United preview - both in your inbox and through your letterbox? Head over here to find out more and secure your copy.

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