Al Ittihad are in 'preliminary negotiations' with Man United for Raphael Varane

Al Ittihad are in preliminary negotiations with Manchester United for Raphael Varane, according to stunning reports.

Varane called time on his legendary spell at Real Madrid by signing for Man United in 2021.

He cost the club £34 million as the star defender penned a four-year deal.

The 30-year-old is in his third season at Old Trafford, having made 65 appearances for his side.

And it appears he has his sights on a potential departure, with bombshell reports claiming a move to Saudi Arabia could be on the cards.

That's according to Saudi journalist @nawaf__oga, who states Varane has given positive indications of playing in the Saudi Pro League.

Due to his current contract, Al Ittihad would have to pay a fee to sign the World Cup winner. Unless they wait for his contract to expire to land him on a free transfer.

The Frenchman would bring a wealth of experience Al Ittihad, having won an impressive four Champions League times during his time with the Spanish giants.

He's also won three La Liga titles, the Copa del Rey and the Carabao Cup at Man United last season. He also won the World Cup with France in 2018.

Raphael Varane in action for Manchester United. Image: Getty

Al Ittihad have already made big moves this summer as they recruited Varane's former club and international colleagues.

They snapped up Karim Benzema and N'Golo Kante, who left Real and Chelsea respectively.

Varane leaving Man United would come as a huge blow to Erik ten Hag, who has used him and Lisandro Martinez as his centre-back pairing.

Will Varane leave Man United? Watch this space.