Manchester United to not trigger Raphael Varane's contract extension clause: Reports

Manchester United are reportedly not willing to trigger one-year option in Raphael Varane's contract. French man has entered last six months of his current deal and will be a free player at end of next season. Varane is free to negotiate a contract with any club from January 1.

3 things you need to know

• Raphael Varane joined Manchester United in 2021
• He signed from Real Mrid
• French defender lifted World Cup in 2018

Manchester United not willing to activate Raphael Varane's contract clause

Varane joined club in 2021 and played a vital role in Erik ten Hag's maiden season at club. He partnered with Lisandro Martinez to stabilise defence and helped United to lift Carabao Cup last campaign. But his persistent injury issues have been a major problem and United are now considering offering him an extension but on reduced terms. former Real Mrid defender is currently on a reported  £340,000 wage per week and his huge salary would be a stumbling block for his extension.

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United want defender to put pen to paper on dotted line but for that, former France international would have to take a pay cut to thrash a new deal. Following departure of Cristiano Ronaldo and David De Gea. Varane remains highest-paid player at club. United took a similar stance with De Gea and did offer him a new deal with lower wages. But player refused to reduce his wage and left club last summer.

United generally keep one month extension clause to protect a player's value and have reportedly taken option to extend Victor Lindelof's contract. Red Devils have suffered severe humiliation on pitch this season and departure of Varane would be a major jolt for m. It remains to be seen wher Varane accepts new terms or walks away from club as a free player.