Chelsea to beat Manchester United to Real Madrid star?

Chelsea are reportedly confident of beating Manchester United in the pursuit of Real Madrid defender Raphael Varane.

The Frenchman has been a key player for Los Blancos over the past decade, but he appears set to leave the club this summer.

Los Blancos have failed to meet his salary demands, and they could be forced to sell him with his contract expiring in June next year.

It was recently claimed that United were the front-runners to land the 28-year-old, and they could make a bid of around £40m.

However, according to The Mirror, the Blues are right in the mix for the player, and are confident of outbidding their Premier League rivals.

The west London giants are prepared to pay as much as £60m for the World Cup winner, provided they are able to agree personal terms.

Los Blancos have their eye on signing Pau Torres as a replacement for Varane. They could face fierce competition from United.