August 14, (THEWILL) – It took a while to come but English Premier League side Manchester United have officially confirmed the acquisition of Frenchman Raphael Varane from Real Madrid, on a four-year contract on Saturday.
Varane had agreed terms and the two clubs had settled on a fee in principle, as was confirmed late last month, but a series of delays obstructed the completion of the move until the defender finally made it to Old Trafford to sign the contract.
The French World Cup-winning player cost United an initial fee of £34m, with the potential of rising to £42m dependent on add-ons and bonuses that may accrue overtime. Varane was in the final year of his contract in the Spanish capital and could have continued at Real but wanted a new challenge.
In his post-signing comments, the 28-year-old revealed his desire to win silverware in England when he spoke with United’s website: “There is a lot more that I want to achieve in my career and I know I’m joining a squad full of great players who will all have the same determination to win matches and trophies.
“Having spoken to the manager I can see how much progress has been made over the last few seasons and I now join a group ready to play at the highest level. I want to make an impact here and I will give everything to become part of this club’s illustrious history.
“Manchester United is one of the most iconic clubs in world football and the chance to come here and play in the Premier League is something I couldn’t turn down.”
In the squad of the 13-time Premier League champions, Varane has taken up the number 19 shirt which youngster Amad Diallo vacated on Friday ahead of the new season. However, as THEWILL reported on Friday, he was not registered early enough to participate in the weekend’s opening game against Leeds.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
