Lens manager sends transfer message to Raphael Varane amid Manchester United exit rumours
RC Lens coach Franck Haise would welcome Raphael Varane back 'with open arms' but admits a move for the Manchester United defender is unlikely.
Varane has fallen behind Harry Maguire in the defensive pecking order at United in recent weeks. The 30-year-old was a regular last season but has seen his standing drop amid a string of injury issues and poor performances.
Recent reports have suggested that United could offload Varane at some point over the next 12 months as Erik ten Hag looks to lower the age profile of his defence. A move to Saudi Arabia has been widely touted but Haise would love to have the former France international back at his first club.
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“If Varane wants to return we will welcome him with open arms," Haise told reporters. "However, with the contract it's another thing.
"I read that it would also be complicated for Bayern Munich to pay his salary and if it is for them... But maybe he wants to come back and I don't know, who knows. However, it is not a current debate to be addressed now."
Ten Hag has been open about his options in defence and has made it clear that Varane is in direct competition with Maguire for the right-sided centre-back role. But when asked about the transfer rumours on Friday, the Dutchman played down any idea of a move away.
"Rapha Varane: I don't know what you're talking about," he said. "It's rumours. Very important player, but there's internal competition and there should be at a top club, as we are.
"And when you decide on two players who do brilliant - Raphael Varane and Harry Maguire - you also have to make a choice for that position."
Varane joined
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