As it stands, Raphael Varane will be leaving Manchester United this June when his contract expires.
Despite holding the option of activating a one-year extension, the club decided against it.
It’s believed that United’s reluctance to trigger the clause is due to Varane’s wages. He is their second highest earner – behind Casemiro – on a reported £340,000 per week. While he is undoubtedly a world-class option to have in the squad, he’s now 30 years old and has suffered his fair share of injuries since making the switch to Old Trafford in 2021.
Varane, who is one of the most decorated players in the team, has proven pivotal in the past two seasons, especially in 2022/2023 when he combined with Lisandro Martinez to create a formidable partnership at the heart of United’s backline.
This term’s debilitating injury crisis has also highlighted just how vital depth is across the squad, which may factor into Erik ten Hag or the board’s thinking when it comes to making a decision on the Frenchman.
As per Ben Jacobs via GiveMeSport, United may still table a fresh contract offer to the World Cup winner on reduced terms in the coming months. Meanwhile, Saudi Arabian sides Al-Ittihad and Al-Nassr are keen on pursuing a deal, and they’ll certainly be able to propose the salary his heart desires.
