Real Madrid yet to make 'direct contact' with Raphael Varane (reliability: 5 stars)

Real Madrid have not made 'direct contact' with Raphael Varane over a possible January move, according to L'Equipe.

The La Liga giants could be in the market for a centre-back in the winter after losing David Alaba through a devastating ACL injury.

Reports in Spain are linking Varane with a move back to the Bernabeu now that he's no longer a guaranteed starting XI player at Manchester United.

L'Equipe's report adds that while Madrid are yet to approach the Frenchman, it's no secret that he would seriously consider moving back in Spain the January window.

'Our best CB and it's not remotely close': Man United fans want Raphael Varane to stay