Manchester United are in the running to sign centre-back Raphael Varane from Real Madrid, according to a report.

The Red Devils are believed to have enquired as to the France international's availability in the past, only to have been put off by Madrid's nine-figure valuation.

However, Varane is now into the final 18 months of his contract and the Manchester Evening News suggests that United could make a fresh approach.

The report indicates that a number of clubs are interested in the 27-year-old, but no formal offers have been tabled ahead of the January transfer window.

Varane has started 10 of Madrid's 11 matches in all competitions this term and is a regular for France at the back.