Raphael Varane 'wants to stay at Manchester United in January'

Raphael Varane reportedly has no intention of pushing for a transfer away from Manchester United.

The centre-back is currently in his third season at Old Trafford having made the switch from Real Madrid in the summer of 2021.

A total of 75 appearances have been made in all competitions, but the 2018 World Cup winner is yet to feature more than 24 times in a single Premier League campaign.

Achieving more game time than that in 2023-24 looks highly unlikely with the France international having dropped down the pecking order under Erik ten Hag.

Despite being available for the last six top-flight fixtures, Varane has been provided with just three substitute outings, totalling 18 minutes, and remaining unused in the other three games.

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As a result, there has been frequent speculation regarding a potential exit for the 30-year-old, who would theoretically not be short of admirers if he became available.

Bayern Munich and clubs in the Saudi Pro League are said to be monitoring the situation, aware that United may be open to a sale at the midway point of the campaign.

Nevertheless, according to Manchester Evening News, Varane's preference is to remain in the United squad for the rest of the season.

Varane allegedly has no desire to swap clubs at this stage of his career and will not do so unless he is told that he has no future in Ten Hag's squad.

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Even with Lisandro Martinez a long-term injury absentee, Ten Hag has largely opted for other options, with Harry Maguire now regarded as first choice having regained his place in the team.

The return of Luke Shaw from an injury layoff of his own has led to the duo pairing up in the middle, with Victor Lindelof next in line due to Jonny Evans recently sustaining an injury.

United are in the market for at least one fresh face for the middle of their defence, although it is unclear whether they will be able to spend big in January.

Nice's Jean-Clair Todibo and Crystal Palace's Marc Guehi are allegedly the most likely to be targeted by United once Sir Jim Ratcliffe formally acquires 25% of the club.