Chelsea planning shock move for Raphael Varane?

Chelsea could make a shock approach to sign Manchester United outcast Raphael Varane in either January or next summer.

The west London giants are looking for a new centre-back next year as they prepare for the potential departure of Thiago Silva.

Silva has already turned 39 this season and the Brazilian may prefer to return to his home country before calling time on his career.

Amidst this, Simon Phillips reports that Varane has been talked about as a transfer candidate during a meeting in the Chelsea board.

A deal is highly unrealistic at the moment, but we won't be surprised if the Blues make a formal move to land his signature soon.

Varane has fallen out of contention with manager Erik ten Hag and he has been warming the bench over the past few league games.

If his situation continues heading into January, he may contemplate a new challenge with another club where he has assured minutes.

Saudi Arabia would be a tempting destination for the World Cup winner, but he could also be tempted to stay in England with the Blues.