Manchester United have stepped up their bid for Lens defender Raphael Varane.
Lens' relegation means they face no alternative but to sell the 18 year-old.
L'Equipe says United have been negotiating economic terms, which could include the player spending a time back at Lens on loan, and are close to finalising the deal.
Newcastle were also keen on Varane and United's good news will also come as a blow to Barcelona, Juventus and Borussia Dortmund, who were all chasing the same player.
