Serie A club tell Manchester United to pay “crazy” money for Raphaël Varane replacement

With Manchester United’s long-term defensive options hanging in the balance since the confirmation of INEOS’ arrival as co-owners, one touted name has been labelled with an ‘outrageous’ price tag.

United’s centre-back options have been far from ideal so far this season. Jonny Evans and Victor Lindelof have been the two most common starting centre-backs so far this season.

Alongside the aforementioned duo, Harry Maguire, Lisandro Martinez, and Raphaël Varane have all faced lengthy stretches on the sideline.

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Of those names, Maguire was seen as replaceable at the end of last season. Meanwhile, Varane is currently enduring his 10th spell of absence since he joined the club in 2021.

With all of the names, bar Martinez, being 29 years or older, United have begun to form a shortlist of names for the long-term health of the club’s defence.

One such name is Atalanta’s Giorgio Scalvini, who made his debut for the side aged just 17, and has been a mainstay of the Bergamo side over the last three seasons.

With United’s interest in the defender being firm, Atalanta remain determined to keep hold of the player for the rest of this season.

According to Alfred Pedulla, Atalanta believe it will take a ‘crazy’ offer of around €60 million for the Serie A giants to consider parting with their defender.

Starting all but three of the club’s Serie A games this season, the Italian international has been praised for his performances at such a young age.

If United are unsuccessful in luring Scalvini to the club, the club may have to continue turning to their own youth prospect in Willy Kambwala who has impressed so far in his limited opportunities.