Following David Alaba’s major knee injury, Real Madrid are considering a January move for Manchester United defender Raphael Varane, according to Sport (page 20).

Both Alaba and Eder Militao are now out with long-term injuries for the La Liga leaders. The only fit senior central defenders are Antonio Rudiger and Nacho.

When needed, Aurelien Tchouameni can fill in at center back, although Sport reports that Los Blancos may attempt to re-sign Varane from United before the start of next season.

His contract with the club expires at the end of the season, and he has been a regular on the bench in recent months. According to reports, United could sell him for roughly €20 million.

For some weeks, Varane was entirely out of favor with manager Erik ten Hag, but his situation has suddenly shifted due to the injuries to Victor Lindelof and Harry Maguire.

He started the 1-0 loss to Bayern Munich in the Champions League and finished the Premier League with a man of the match performance against Liverpool at Anfield.

With 15 clearances and winning 100% of his aerial duels, the World Cup winner was world-class. He performed admirably for the Red Devils from the left center-back position.

With the turnaround and injury list, we believe United is unlikely to authorize his sale in January. They may detain him till the summer before deciding on his future.

Varane’s current contract expires in June of next year, although United have the option to extend it for another year. The extension clause should be activated by the club before the New Year.