The Raphael Varane soap opera continues as the player edges closer to his Real Madrid exit. It was announced by MARCA all the way back on February 9 that a move to Manchester United was possible and his future could be sealed this week.

Varane has left it up to the two clubs to decide his future, but Los Blancos are afraid that their central defender may have already reached an agreement with the Red Devils. The Frenchman is currently on holiday and it won't be until he returns to Madrid that his future will become clear.

If he wishes to move on, Real Madrid would be keen to cash in on the defender as he only has one year left on his current contract. Varane would like this too, as he remains grateful to the Spanish club and wouldn't want to force his way out by letting his contract run out.

Manchester United could try to make a low offer and Real Madrid know that the transfer market isn't what it was before the pandemic, but Los Blancos will try to bring in a significant fee for one of their most highly valued players.

A Real Madrid Without Varane

There's no doubt that, without Varane in the squad, Real Madrid would be a weaker side. However, with players such as a budding Eder Militao, an experienced Nacho and new arrival David Alaba, in addition to some homegrown talent, Real Madrid shouldn't have too much to worry about defensively.

Despite the Premier League's transfer market also closing on August 31, neither party would want to delay the move for longer than necessary. Varane is due back this week and the next few days should, therefore, be key.

Carlo Ancelotti is aware of the situation and has knows that the Frenchman could end up packing his bags.