Lens president Gervais Martel has announced defender Raphael Varane is moving to Real Madrid.
Martel says a fee has been agreed for the 18 year-old.
"Even if Lens had stayed in Ligue 1," Martel explained, "Raphael Varane would have left because he is a phenomenon!
"He is going to play for Real Madrid under the leadership of Jose Mourinho who he has already met, just as he has Zinedine Zidane (advisor to the Real president).
"Raphael is an exceptional boy. I am proud that he is going to don the Real colours!
"He has been pursued by Real for the past two months, he was welcomed by Real and he visited their facilities. He told me: 'I cannot turn down such an opportunity!'."
"Letting him leave is not about the money," Martel added.
"I must allow him to pursue his career. He is going to a club which has huge sporting ambitions. I am certain he will earn his place there."
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