Man United ready to approve the sale of Raphael Varane in January

According to Florian Plettenberg, Manchester United are ready to sanction Raphael Varane’s departure during the January transfer window.

The Frenchman has been used as a substitute in recent games across all competitions, with manager Erik ten Hag preferring Harry Maguire in the right centre-back position.

The Dutch tactician believes Varane is ineffective from left center-back. Recently, he has preferred Jonny Evans and Victor Lindelof over him.

With Luke Shaw’s return from a muscle injury, the manager now has another option for the role, which could add to the uncertainty surrounding Varane’s future at United.

Plettenberg now claims that United are aware Varane is ‘unhappy’ with his current situation.

They are willing to give the ‘green light’ for a winter departure but will not entertain loan offers. The 2018 World Cup champion is currently worth between €20 and €30 million.

Bayern Munich is keeping an eye on the former Real Madrid defender, but there is no further information at this time. His current weekly salary is unlikely to be matched by the German champions.

The 30-year-old is no longer a sure starter for the Red Devils, and we wouldn’t be surprised if he considers leaving in the New Year.

Bayern are currently unable to meet his €20 million annual salary, and a move to the Saudi Pro League appears to be a more likely option for the centre-back.

Several elite players have been offered substantial wages by Saudi clubs, and Varane’s salary could easily double if he moves to the cash-rich league this winter.

United could easily secure a good transfer fee in the process, which would help them land a quality replacement. Jean-Clair Todibo of Nice appears to be the top target.

The 23-year-old could sign for €40 million. Sir Jim Ratcliffe is willing to provide financial assistance after securing his minority stake in the club, so United should be able to afford him.