Manchester United have announced their signing of Raphael Varane, pending a medical, bringing the centre-back to the Premier League for around 50 million euros. The centre-back only had one year remaining on his Real Madrid contract and is embarking on a new challenge in England.
The player didn't train with Real Madrid on Tuesday evening, before his transfer was confirmed by both clubs shortly afterwards. It has been in the works for several weeks, with the clubs negotiating the fair price for the world-class centre-back who was going to become a free agent next summer.
Back on February 8, MARCA reported that Varane wasn't going to renew and now he has left Real Madrid after 10 seasons in which he won 18 titles.
"Real Madrid would like to express their gratitude to Raphael Varane and his family and wish him the best of luck in this new stage of his career," a Real Madrid statement said. "Our club thanks the player for his professionalism and exemplary conduct throughout his ten seasons representing our colours."
Manchester United, meanwhile, are celebrating the arrival of a player who can partner Harry Maguire to form an elite central defence.