Manchester United 'consider £40m Raphael Varane bid'

Manchester United are reportedly considering a £40m bid for Real Madrid centre-back Raphael Varane.

The Red Devils are expected to be in the market for a new central defender this summer due to the uncertainty surrounding the futures of Phil Jones and Chris Smalling at Old Trafford.

According to The Mirror, United boss Jose Mourinho has identified Varane as the perfect player to boost his backline this summer, and the 20-time English champions are prepared to pay £40m to complete a deal.

Mourinho has previously spoken of his admiration for the 24-year-old, who was strongly linked with a move to United before joining Madrid from French club Lens in the summer of 2011.

The France international has made over 200 appearances for Los Blancos in all competitions - winning two La Liga titles and three Champions Leagues in the process.