Raphael Varane, Saudi Pro League, Man United,

Raphael Varane’s Future Uncertain as Saudi Clubs Eye Summer Move

Vishal Bhawani

Manchester United defender Raphael Varane could be making a move to the Saudi Pro League (SPL) in 2024, with Saudi chiefs reportedly confident about securing the World Cup winner’s services, according to recent reports.

Varane, who has faced fitness challenges, lost his starting spot in Erik ten Hag’s team for several weeks. Contrary to previous indications, his current deal with Manchester United is set to expire this summer, with the club having the option to trigger a one-year extension.

Raphael Varane could say his Goodbyes to Europe as Saudi clubs are keen on signing the United defender

Recent reports suggest that Manchester United are contemplating opening talks with Varane for a new contract, albeit at a reduced salary, given that his current wages are deemed disproportionate to his on-field performances. Despite ongoing negotiations, Varane is technically free to explore potential moves to other clubs this summer.

While discussions about a new contract or extension are ongoing, Saudi dealmakers reportedly view Varane as a “very concrete possibility” for the Saudi Pro League in 2024. Al-Ittihad and Al-Nassr, reigning champions and keen contenders for Varane’s signature, are confident about securing the Frenchman, despite previous reports downplaying the likelihood of a move to Saudi Arabia.

Also Read: Bayern Munich Eyes January Move for Manchester United’s Varane as Contract Nears End

Reigning champions Al-Ittihad had expressed interest in Varane last summer, but the player had then shown no inclination to move to the Middle East. A January transfer for Varane appears improbable, as most Saudi clubs have already filled their foreign player quotas and exhausted their budgets during the previous summer window.

As Manchester United reportedly opts against triggering Varane’s contract extension, the French defender is now free to negotiate with other clubs starting from January 1. Varane, a key figure in France’s 2018 World Cup-winning squad, is attracting interest from multiple clubs, with his destination yet to be finalized. Although it looks like SPL awaits Varane.