As luck would have it, United were looking for a central defender. Not a year ago, United made it clear then to agents they didn’t want one, despite Axel Tuanzebe’s inexperience and Phil Jones and Eric Bailly’s injuries. United passed on options including Nathan Ake, James Tarkowski, Thiago Silva and talked down any interest in Dayot Upamecano, but attitudes changed. United were made aware towards the end of last summer’s extended transfer window that Varane was seriously considering a transfer to England or the contract of his life at Real Madrid. He’d be watched carefully, as would two other defenders in La Liga: Jules Kounde of Sevilla and Pau Torres of Villarreal. England’s Tyrone Mings was scouted. Each had their attributes, but United always felt Varane was the Rolls Royce of the three — despite him not having two great games when United watched him in person in the spring.
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Back at Carrington, United’s coaches, analysts and scouts agreed on his frightening speed, his technical excellence, his ability in the air — there are clear benefits to training up against Ronaldo and Benzema for such a long time. Injuries were mentioned as the player has suffered with his knee, but Varane’s stats were convincing — an average of 41 games per season for Madrid in the last seven years. They felt it was rare to have a combination of being tall, fast and skilful. His vast Champions League experience (and four winners’ medals) was a plus and he was considered one of the best central defenders in the world. His compatriot and former team-mate Patrice Evra is glowing in the assessment he gives to The Athletic.
“Varane reminds me of Rio Ferdinand,” said Evra. “Great with the ball, great in the air. He’s the complete centre-back. I remember my first game with the French national team and I was so impressed. He was so young yet so good with the ball, so fast and his anticipation was perfect. He’s calm with the ball and he can score too. It’s a top, top signing for Manchester United.”