Manchester United rejected chance to land Serie A star before signing Raphael Varane

Manchester United reportedly turned down the opportunity to sign Napoli defender Kalidou Koulibaly this summer.

The Red Devils were searching an elite centre-back during the recent transfer window, and Koulibaly was on their radar.

According to Corriere dello Sport, Koulibaly was the priority target for the club, but they were put off by Napoli's demands.

The Serie A outfit wanted £34.1m up front for the 30-year-old, but United made it clear that they wouldn't pay the fee.

They ended up signing Raphael Varane from Real Madrid for the same price, although the Frenchman is two years younger.

Varane has already made three appearances for the Red Devils across all competitions, bagging the solitary assist.

He has formed a solid partnership with Harry Maguire, and the duo could be key to United's pursuit of silverware this term.

The Red Devils travel to the London Stadium to face West Ham United in the Premier League on Sunday afternoon.