The French defender is leaving Real Madrid after a decade (Picture: Getty Images)Manchester United have advanced talks with Real Madrid over Raphael Varane and are on the verge of sealing a £42.8million deal, though Chelsea have made a late approach of their own. However, there might still be a stumbling block in United’s pursuit after one of their Premier League rivals made a very late approach for Varane. According to Spanish newspaper Marca, Chelsea have now registered their interest in the World Cup winner at the eleventh hour – though he is still expected to join United. Chelsea may have left their move for Varane too late (Picture: Getty)Marca’s report also says Varane’s departure is now a virtual formality and, surprisingly, the Spanish club will not be bringing in a replacement. MORE : Ole Gunnar Solskjaer plotting new Manchester United formation that Raphael Varane could be key toMORE : Manchester United on verge of £68m double transfer swoop as Raphael Varane agrees five-year dealFor more stories like this, check our sport pageFollow Metro Sport across our social channels, on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

Source: Metro July 16, 2021 22:39 UTC