Manchester United are readying an opening offer for Real Madrid defender Raphael Varane.

The Mirror says manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is keen on signing the Frenchman to play alongside captain Harry Maguire at the heart of the defence.

Varane, 28, only has a year left on his contract and United believe they can secure his signature for around £40m.

The 73-cap international has spent a decade with the Spanish giants, making 359 appearances in all competitions, winning 18 trophies in that time.

He has won three La Liga titles, four Champions Leagues and the 2018 World Cup, and would bring pace, poise and winning experience to the side.

United have tried to sign him before in previous transfer windows, but could get a deal over the line this summer, with Varane understood to want a new challenge.