Cesc Fabregas is eyeing up a move for former Manchester United star Raphael Varane.
The experienced defender made a surprising decision to quit the Premier League giants at the end of last season.
Varane spent three years at Old Trafford and although injuries meant he never quite recaptured the form he consistently displayed during a decade at the heart of Real Madrid’s defence, his United career did end on a high.
The 31-year-old produced a masterful performance in last month’s FA Cup final victory over Manchester City, during which he almost totally nullified the threat of Erling Haaland.
Ahead of his United swansong, Varane had already confirmed his decision to leave as a free agent.
He said: ‘To you guys, supporters of Manchester United. ‘It’s been an amazing few years to play for this special club and wearing that shirt. The first time I went to Old Trafford as a Manchester United player was insane; the atmosphere was amazing.
‘I fell in love with the club, with the fans. You have to play for Man United to understand what that represents. For my kids, it’s home here. It’s going to be a special place for me for life.
‘When the fans go to Wembley it’s something they remember for life. To share that moment with them [winning the Carabao Cup] was absolutely amazing.
‘Despite the fact we had a difficult season, I’m very positive for the future. The new owners are coming with a clear plan and a great strategy. I’ll see you at Old Trafford to say goodbye for the last game at home this season and it’s going to be a very emotional day for me, for sure.’
Varane is yet to make a decision on his next club, but has a host of admirers both in Europe and further afield with Saudi Pro League clubs keen to snap him up.
Fabregas, meanwhile, has other ideas as he plots how to enhance the Como side which earned promotion to Serie A last season.
According to Fabrizio Romano, Fabregas views Varane as his ‘dream’ signing but enticing the former World Cup winner will be no straightforward task.
Fabregas is also planning to raid one of his former clubs, Chelsea, and is keen to sign youngster Alfie Gilchrist, who made such an encouraging first team breakthrough last term, on loan.
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