Man Utd could offer Raphael Varane new contract as Saudi Arabia plot summer bid
- Varane's current Man Utd contract is due to expire in the summer
- Red Devils have declined to trigger their 12-month extension clause but still hope to keep Frenchman
- Saudi Arabia plotting an offer for Varane in summer
By Tom Gott, Ben Jacobs
Raphael Varane could be offered the chance to stay at Manchester United on reduced terms as he approaches the end of his current contract, 90min understands.
The Red Devils have declined to trigger their 12-month extension clause in Varane's contract, which is due to expire this summer, amid concerns over the cost of his current deal.
As they attempted with goalkeeper David de Gea last season, United are keen to sit down with Varane to discuss an entirely new contract which, if accepted, would see the French defender take home a lower wage.
Sources have told 90min that Varane may consider such an option, having made it clear that he hopes to end his career at one of the three teams he has represented across his illustrious career. Varane emerged as a teenage star at Lens before cementing his legacy as one of the best defenders of his generation with Real Madrid.
Madrid are not currently considering a move for Varane, with manager Carlo Ancelotti recently confirming they would not sign a new centre-back this month.
Despite Varane's desire to avoid joining a new team, 90min understands Saudi Arabian officials are prepared to make the 30-year-old an offer in the summer and are optimistic about their chances of convincing Varane to make the move.
As of yet, Varane has made no suggestions that he would entertain an offer from Saudi Arabia but the Public Investment Fund, who control four of the country's top sides, believe in their ability to pique the interest of any player.
Manager Erik ten Hag confirmed during Thursday's press conference that United have triggered the extension clauses in the contracts of Victor Lindelof, Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Hannibal Mejbri, adding that talks remain on with both Varane and striker Anthony Martial, whose deal also expires this summer.
United are not anticipating a busy January transfer window and are currently focused on outgoings, although a new forward could be signed if sufficient funds are raised. Al Ittihad, the reigning Saudi champions, are one side intent on trying for Varane, while Cristiano Ronaldo's Al Nassr are another to watch. But first Varane would need convincing.
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