Sir Jim Ratcliffe ‘decision’ could see £112m stars leave Man Utd

Raphael Varane and Casemiro could depart Manchester United in January, according to a recent report.

The Red Devils paid Real Madrid a combined £112m for the pair during the 2022 and 2021 summer transfer windows, and both played vital roles in Erik ten Hag’s first season at Old Trafford. But they’ve struggled this term, with Varane failing to fifth-choice centre-back, while Casemiro’s performances have dipped markedly.

Both players face uncertain futures at United, especially with Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s imminent minority takeover. The purchase of a 25 percent stake in the club was expected to be agreed this week but has stalled and cannot take place until next week at the earliest due to the New York Stock Exchange closing over the Thanksgiving period.

But once the takeover is agreed and fully ratified, Ratcliffe plans to oversee the club’s football operations, which could prove an issue for Varane and Casemiro. The Ineso lead shareholder has privately been critical of the club’s transfer policies, especially for handing long-term contracts to ageing players.

With the ex-Madrid duo in their 30s, they could be among the first to be moved on under the new administration. Indeed, the Daily Mail report Varane and Casemiro ‘approach the January transfer window with a question mark over their futures’.

The outlet claim Casemiro could move to Saudi Arabia this winter, adding his future will be ‘up for discussion’ if he stays beyond the January window. As for Varane, the Mail report that his relationship with manager Ten Hag has ‘practically broken down’. 

The Frenchman is said to be unhappy at starting behind Victor Lindelof and Jonny Evans in recent games, with Varane and Ten Hag exchanging words last month. The defender is also said to be a target for Bayern Munich, but a deal may prove problematic due to his wage demands.