Raphael Varane could be frozen out at Man United after journalist’s £46.8m news – pundit
The signing of centre-back Lisandro Martinez could mean Raphael Varane drops out of favour at Man United, according to Noel Whelan.
The former Leeds striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, suggested the 29-year-old Frenchman may only be a first-choice option if new boss Erik ten Hag employs a five-man defence.
According to journalist Fabrizio Romano (15 July), Man United have a “full agreement” with Ajax for the the €55million (£46.8million) signing of Martinez – with the defender set to sign a five-year deal.
Arsenal were heavily linked with the Argentina international, who played 36 times across all competitions last season.
Former Real Madrid star Varane struggled during his first season in the Premier League – managing just 20 top-flight starts after a string of niggling injuries.
When asked if the World Cup winner could find himself on the bench after this news, Whelan told Football Insider‘s Ewan Kingsbury: “Yeah, absolutely.
“Martinez is a left-sided centre-back, so the only way Varane fits into that side now is if Ten Hag chooses to play a five-man defence.
“We do know they’re trying to get rid of Eric Bailly, so that’ll free up a space in that defence.
“Martinez is a good move. We know Arsenal have wanted him and they’ve pipped them to a deal.
“He’s gone out and got a player in that he knows and trusts, and one he feels will improve this squad. It’s part of this rejuvenation that Ten Hag is hoping to bring.
“It seems like a good buy to me – and for good money as well.”
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