Source: Daily_Mail
Real Madrid pip Manchester United to Raphael Varane
ShareManchester United have missed out on the signing of Raphael Varane after Lens president Gervais Martel has confirmed the young centre-half is to join Real Madrid.[LNB]Varane, 18, is regarded as one of the most promising talents in Europe and Bernabeu boss Jose Mourinho has succeeded in preventing the teenager from linking up with Sir Alex Ferguson at Old Trafford.[LNB] Teenage kicks: Real Madrid have won the race to sign Lens defender Raphael Varane (L)[LNB]But it would appear he is Madrid-bound, with Martel claiming last night the Spanish giants had won the race.[LNB]He said: 'Even if Lens had stayed in Ligue 1, Raphael Varane would have left because he is a phenomenon.[LNB]'He is going to play for Real Madrid under the leadership of Jose Mourinho who he has already met, just as he has (club advisor) Zinedine Zidane.[LNB] Special one: Varane was persuaded to snub Manchester United by Madrid boss Jose Mourinho[LNB]'Raphael is an exceptional boy. I am proud that he is going to don the Real colours.[LNB]'He has been pursued by Real for the past two months, he was welcomed by Real and he visited their facilities. He told me: "I cannot turn down such an opportunity"'.'[LNB]Varane made 23 appearances for Lens last season but could not prevent them from suffering relegation to Ligue 2.[LNB] Lens reject bids for teen sensation and Man United target VaraneReal Madrid to use Zidane to pip Manchester United to ?9m Raphael VaraneOwen hails exciting Young as United close in on ?16m move for Aston Villa aceAll the latest Manchester United news, features and opinion [LNB] Explore more:People: Alex Ferguson, Zinedine Zidane, Jose Mourinho Places: Madrid, Europe
