Manchester United on Alert as Real Madrid Prepare to Let Raphael Varane Leave

Real Madrid are considering sanctioning the possible departure of central defender Raphael Varane in light of interest from Manchester United, according to Spanish publication El Confidencial. 

Last season's Champions League winners are reportedly in the midst of a culling with a number of current first players set for a Bernabeu exit. James Rodriguez, Isco, Jese, and new signing Alvaro Morata have been identified as the players in danger.

A number of those players have been linked with a move to the Premier League in the event that a move is sanctioned. Varane is another Real are willing to let go and they will seemingly face little resistance from him after reports suggested the defender has become disillusioned with his current role as backup to Pepe and Sergio Ramos.

Madrid's willingness to let Varane go is in direct relation to United and Jose Mourinho's continued interest in the France international after the Red Devils were beaten to then 18-year-old's signature by Los Blancos.

Mourinho managed the Frenchman during his three-year stint in the Spanish capital and after several impressive performances utilising his pace, strength and positioning, the two-time Champions League winning coach is known to be a huge admirer.

But persistent injuries have hampered the 23-year-old's progress in Madrid and a hamstring injury in the lead-up to Euro 2016 ruled him out of contention for Didier Deschamps' 23-man squad.

United signed Eric Bailly from Villarreal for £30 million earlier this summer but the availability of their long-term target and Real Madrid's willingness to listen to offers could see them make another move in the La Liga market.