According to Florian Plettenberg, Manchester United are ready to sanction Raphael Varane’s departure during the January transfer window.

The Frenchman has been used as a substitute in recent games in all competitions, with manager Erik ten Hag preferring Harry Maguire in the right centre-back position.

The Dutch strategist believes Varane is ineffective from left center-back. Recently, he has preferred Jonny Evans and Victor Lindelof above him.

With Luke Shaw’s return from a muscle injury, the manager now has another choice for the role, which could add to the uncertainty surrounding Varane’s future at United.

Plettenberg now believes that United are aware Varane is ‘unhappy’ with his current circumstances.

They are willing to grant the ‘green light’ for a winter departure but will not entertain loan offers. The 2018 World Cup champion is presently worth between €20 and €30 million.

Bayern Munich is keeping an eye on the former Real Madrid defender, but there is no further information at this time. His present weekly salary is unlikely to be matched by the German champions.

The 30-year-old is no longer a definite starter for the Red Devils, and we wouldn’t be surprised if he considers leaving in the New Year.

Bayern are currently unable to fulfill his €20 million annual contract, and a move to the Saudi Pro League appears to be a more realistic option for the centre-back.

Several elite players have been offered large wages by Saudi clubs, and Varane’s income could easily quadruple if he moves to the cash-rich league this winter.

United could easily collect a good transfer price in the process, which would enable them recruit a great successor. Jean-Clair Todibo of Nice appears to be the top target.

The 23-year-old might sign for €40 million. Sir Jim Ratcliffe is willing to provide financial support after obtaining his minority ownership in the club, thus United should be able to afford him.