Transfer News: Chelsea are ahead in the race for Raphael Varane
According to transfer news from Mundo Deportivo (h/t Express), Chelsea have moved ahead in the race for Raphael Varane. Manchester United and PSG are also said to be after the Real Madrid defender but the latest reports suggest that the Blues have stolen a march on both the clubs.
Varane has been a stalwart at the back for Real Madrid for almost a decade now and has won loads of trophies during his time at the club. However, the Frenchman is entering the final year of his contract with Los Blancos and wants a new challenge in his career.
The Blues have shown massive improvement in defence since Thomas Tuchel took over the reins. However, Chelsea are looking at defensive options, with some players like Silva and Azpilicueta at the wrong end of their careers. Varane is among the names being considered by the Blues and Tuchel. Adding a new defender has become a priority with Tuchel switching to a back three.
It appears that Chelsea are leading the race for Varane and Thomas Tuchel is willing to offer the €70million being demanded by Real Madrid. Even recently, Real Madrid president Florentino Perez opened the door for a transfer claiming that a player can leave if they want to. It is clear that they don’t want any hassles blocking a transfer.
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At 28 years of age, Varane fits the category of a prime world-class defender that Chelsea need. He is not only young for a centre-back but also comes with an elite winning mentality. It remains to be seen how Chelsea proceed while leading the race for his signature. Nonetheless, this would be one of the statement signings by the club.