Chelsea are reportedly closing in on a deal for Real Madrid star Raphael Varane.
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The France international has been heavily linked with a Premier League move over recent weeks, and Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho is believed to have shown the interest in the star defender.
According to Metro, Varane is looking to for a move away from the Bernabeu and is viewed as a long-term replacement for Chelsea skipper John Terry.
Varane is believed to be in search of a starting role next season and is unwilling to play second fiddle to either Sergio Ramos or Pepe next season.
Despite Varane’s qualities, it’s difficult to see where Mourinho would fit the 22-year-old.
The Portuguese manager is settled with his centre-back pairing of Terry and Gary Cahill, and whilst Varane is also capable of playing in a defensive midfield role it seems unlikely Mourinho would be willing to drop Nemanja Matic to the bench.
Metro reports that Real Madrid are after a £22m transfer fee for Varane, but Chelsea will face stiff competition for his signature with Manchester United also believed to be interested.
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