Rapheal Varane – The £340k per week Manchester United star to kickstart summer transfer clearout

Manchester United are at a junction under Erik ten Hag, and with the recent appointment of Sir aJim Ratcliffe, the club’s transfer chiefs must make the proper judgements They will want to end this disappointing season on a high note by preventing Manchester City from winning the FA Cup in consecutive years.

Raphael Varane will attempt to be ready for the showpiece at Wembley Stadium on Saturday, which will be his final game in United shirt. Injuries have dogged the veteran Frenchman’s stay in the Northwest. A deal that sparked such excitement for a variety of reasons, including his trophy-laden career to date, has not turned out as many had planned.

And, while there has been change off the pitch as commanded by Sir Jim Ratcliffe following his minority takeover, there may be major changes on it as well. Erik ten Hag, who has come under growing scrutiny as the season has progressed, has been plagued by selection issues throughout the season, particularly in defence, where his options have been devastated by injuries.

Varane will depart at the end of the season when his contract expires, following 93 appearances for United. “To you guys, supporters of Manchester United, it’s been an amazing few years to play for this special club and wearing that shirt,” said Varane, revealing his impending departure.”

“The first time I went to Old Trafford as a Man United player it was insane, the atmosphere was amazing. I fell in love with the club and the fans. You have to play for Man United to understand what that represents.”

For my kids it’s home here, it’s going to be a special place for me for life. When the fans go to Wembley, it’s something they remember for life. To share that moment with them was absolutely amazing.”

“Despite the fact we had a difficult season I’m very positive for the future. The new owners are coming with a clear plan and a great strategy. I’ll see you at Old Trafford to say goodbye for the last home game of the season. It’s going to be a very emotional day for me, for sure.”

Varane’s next club is a source of speculation, and while Man United will not get a fee for any sale, there will be a significant reduction in the pay cost as they strive to re-establish themselves at the top table of England and Europe. Varane earns more than £300,000 a week at Old Trafford, potentially up to £340,000. Bruno Fernandes, the captain, could be joining him through the exit door. The Portuguese’s colleagues are unsure whether he will return to Old Trafford next season.

Mason Greenwood’s future is also uncertain as he nears the end of his loan stay in La Liga with Getafe. The Englishman has been out of the first-team since United suspended him on allegations of attempted rape, controlling and coercive behaviour, and violence, which the Crown Prosecution Service eventually dismissed.