After weeks of rumors and speculation, Manchester United are ultimately on the final steps of acquiring center-back Raphael Varane from Real Madrid. At first, the Spanish giants were hesitant to sell the Frenchman because Sergio Ramos left on a free transfer for PSG but eventually gave the green light.

Sky Sport's Fabrizio Romano has the report:

Raphael Varane has just 12 months remaining on his current contract at the Bernabeu Stadium, and Real are keen to cash in on their asset instead of allowing the Frenchman to depart for free next summer. Varane was not interested in renewing his contract at Madrid because he told them that he wanted a new challenge, per The Athletic.

After finishing second on the league table last season, Manchester United made big waves on the transfer market this offseason. Varane would also be another statement signing for Manchester United as they were looking to find a solid partner for Harry Maguire. After signing winger Jadon Sancho, United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's bid to reinforce the core of his defensive line has come to fruition. Varane will be a huge boost for Manchester United's backline.

Varane joined Real Madrid from French club Lens and has a lot of experience under his belt with the Spanish Giants. Varane will end his tenure with Madrid as a decorated player, winning three La Liga titles and four Champions League titles.

Varane also won the World Cup with France in 2018. He has appeared in 79 games for the national team and played in all four games at Euro 2020 as they reached the last 16.

It will be interesting to see Varane wear a Manchester United jersey next season.