Lionel Messi's Inter Miami plotting potential free-agent move for former Real Madrid superstar: Reports
Lionel Messi's Inter Miami have made an initial approach over the potential transfer of former Real Madrid superstar Raphael Varane, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano. The Frenchman is currently a free agent after announcing that he would leave Manchester United at the end of the season on May 14 after three years at Old Trafford.
Varane established himself as one of the best centre-backs in Europe during his time at Real Madrid between 2011 and 2021. He made 360 appearances across all competitions, helping Los Blancos win 18 trophies, including three La Liga and four UEFA Champions League titles.
The 31-year-old opted to join Manchester United in the summer of 2021. While he showed signs of promise, the Frenchman has been held back by 11 injuries, being sidelined for 45 games (217 days). Despite this, he ended his tenure on a high, inspiring the Red Devils to FA Cup glory over Manchester City on May 25.
Lionel Messi's Inter Miami are reportedly keen on bolstering their defense with Varane's signing in the summer transfer window (Thursday, July 18 to Wednesday, August 14 in the MLS).
Romano tweeted:
"On Rapha Varane links: Inter Miami have just made an approach to ask on Varane potential free agent deal conditions, nothing else at the moment. No negotiations, nothing advanced or decided."
Inter Miami signed former Barcelona icons Jordi Alba, Sergio Busquets, and Luis Suarez in recent months, reuniting them with Lionel Messi. Despite this, they have been poor defensively, conceding 27 goals in 18 league appearances.
They were also knocked out of the CONCACAF Champions Cup quarter-finals by Monterrey. Varane's signing could be integral in the Herons having more stability at the back.
How have Lionel Messi's Inter Miami fared so far this season?
Inter Miami's season commenced towards the second half of February after the conclusion of their off-season. Nevertheless, Lionel Messi and Co. have made a strong start to their campaign and are currently at the summit of the MLS Eastern Conference with 35 points from 18 games.
The Herons have won 10 games drawn five, and lost three, and are currently two points above Cincinnati - who have two games in hand. They have put themselves in a good position to compete for silverware this season, having missed out on the playoffs last year.
Moreover, the Herons have also been bolstered by Lionel Messi who has garnered 14 goals and 11 assists in 15 appearances across all competitions. They next face Philadelphia on Saturday, June 15.