Raphael Varane 'considers Real Madrid future' amid Jose Mourinho interest in Manchester United reunion

Jose Mourinho has received a big boost in his hopes of reuniting with Raphael Varane at Manchester United after Marca reporter Real Madrid were considering the player's future. The Spanish publication says Zinedine Zidane is eager to keep him at the club, but the Spaniards may need to negotiate a departure should the French player force his exit.

The now 23-year-old defender moved to the current Champions League title-holders five years ago as a prospect for the future. His breakthrough into the first team under the current United boss made saw him garner a reputation as one of the most promising players in his position.

However, following the departure of Mourinho, Varane failed to secure a place in the Real Madrid back-line due to the presence of Pepe and Sergio Ramos.

Rafa Benitez looked likely to change that last season, handing him a first-team spot in the early part of the season before his dismissal. The arrival of his compatriot Zidane in the managerial chair was expected to even increase his importance in the team, as the French legend was a key figure in his move to Real Madrid in the summer of 2011 – when United already tried to secure his services.

However, Varane was dropped for Pepe in crucial games such as the Champions League semi-final with Manchester City and the quarter-final with Wolfsburg. He missed the final itself due to injury.

The player recently suggested discontent at the situation during an interview with L'Equipe, saying: "After five years at Real Madrid, I hope I am able to overcome any kind of obstacle. I feel I'm at a turning point. I think all players need to feel as though they are developing – it's important to feel you are making progress and that's something I aim to do every day. I am aware of what qualities I have and what I am capable of."

Marca now claims that despite Real Madrid wanting to keep him the Frenchman is considering to leaving the club during the coming summer transfer window.

The report indicates that a number of clubs are expected to tempt him, offering both a starting role and a lucrative contract. Marca link the player with a Mourinho reunion at Old Trafford, as the Portuguese boss was previously interested in luring him to Stamford Bridge during his time at Chelsea.

United have already complete the signing of Eric Bailly from Villarreal to bolster the back-line ahead of next season. Manchester Evening News recently claimed that the manager is still looking to add another centre-back to his side amid the uncertain futures of Phil Jones and Daley Blind.