Manchester United’s Transfer Plans Altered as Major Issue Discovered in Raphael Varane’s Medical Examination. Manchester United Adjust Raphael Varane’s Salary Package due to Medical Concerns.
Manchester United reportedly made changes to Raphael Varane’s salary package after identifying a potential issue during his medical examination. The defender joined United in August 2021 from Real Madrid for £34 million, adding valuable experience to the team’s defensive line.
While Varane played a crucial role in United’s third-place finish in the Premier League and Carabao Cup victory last season, he has fallen out of favor under manager Erik ten Hag this season. This began when he was excluded from the starting lineup in the team’s 3-0 defeat to Manchester City in October.
The 30-year-old has struggled with consistent fitness throughout his time at Old Trafford, and a recent report from The Athletic suggests that United was aware of his fitness concerns. Varane’s knees were highlighted as an area requiring special attention during his medical examination before signing for the club.
As a result, the club restructured Varane’s salary, placing a greater emphasis on performance-based bonuses rather than a higher basic wage. Despite this adjustment, Varane remаins one of the highest earners at Manchester United, reportedly earning £250,000-per-week.
It is important to note that Varane is still highly regarded by the club and is not considered a disruptive influence. He has also expressed no desire to leave the club, although his playing time could influence his decision if he continues to face limited opportunities, particularly during the busy festive period.
Manchester United will face a packed schedule with eight games in the upcoming month, and injuries to Jonny Evans and Lisandro Martinez have further impacted the team’s defensive options.
Former United player Rio Ferdinand recently commented on Varane’s situation, suggesting that he may be frustrated by his lack of game time compared to his previous experiences at Real Madrid, where he won four Champions League titles.
United’s next match is against Everton, and it is anticipated that Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof will start as the center-back pairing.