Manchester United receive blow in pursuit of Real Madrid star

Manchester United have received a potential transfer blow with Raphael Varane prepared to sign a new contract with Real Madrid.

The Frenchman has been with Los Blancos for the past decade, where he has made more than 350 appearances in all competitions.

A recent report claimed that contract talks had reached a standstill and the centre-back could be sold for around £70m.

However, according to AS, there appears a change of stance from Varane and he is more likely to extend his contract beyond June 2022.

United have been long-term admirers of Varane and they initially attempted to sign him in the summer of 2011 from Lens.

They made another approach two years ago, but Varane was convinced to stay at the Bernabeu by manager Zinedine Zidane.

As things stand, it appears that the World Cup winner will extend his association with the club for a few more seasons.

United may have to shift their focus elsewhere. It has been claimed that Villarreal's Pau Torres could be the alternative option.