Manchester United plan official bid for €70m-rated defender

Manchester United are reportedly planning an official bid to sign Real Madrid defender Raphael Varane.

The Red Devils have identified the Frenchman as their main defensive target, and have already agreed personal terms.

According to Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano, the club are now preparing a formal bid to secure the centre-back's services.

Los Blancos are looking for around €70 million, but United are reluctant to pay more than €50m for the World Cup winner.

This is expected to prolong negotiations, but the Red Devils are growing confident about their chances of landing Varane.

With under 12 months left on his contract, Madrid are looking to cash in on the defender rather than lose him for free next year.

Varane is eager to test himself in the Premier League, and he has agreed terms over a five-year deal with the Red Devils.

He is prepared to join them this summer, provided they can reach a suitable transfer agreement with his current employers.