Raphael Varane 'makes a decision' on potential move to Saudi Arabia - after being linked with a reunion with old team-mate Karim Benzema since falling out of favour at Man United

Raphael Varane has reportedly made a decision on a potential move to Saudi Arabia after falling out of favour at Manchester United. 

The defender has struggled for regular playing time at Old Trafford this season, making just five Premier League starts - with the likes of Harry Maguire, Victor Lindelof and Jonny Evans often starting ahead of the 30-year-old.

This has led to speculation that he could leave the club, with reported interest from Saudi Arabia and former club Real Madrid - where he could potentially replaced the injured David Alaba. 

A move to the Saudi Pro League could see him reunite with former Los Blancos team-mate Karim Benzema. 

French publication L'Equipe though report that Varane's entourage have claimed that a move to Saudi Arabia, or Qatar, is 'not a subject'. 

Raphael Varane's entourage suggest that a potential Saudi move is 'not a subject' for the player

Varane has previously declared that he will end his career either at Real Madrid, Manchester United or Lens - where he started his career. 

The Frenchman retains a deep attachment to the Spanish giants, keeping a strong connection with players and managers he has worked with, and even keeping his house there.

However, there has been no contact between the club and player over a move for the upcoming January transfer window.

It is claimed that Varane is not in favour of changing clubs in the middle of the season, but knows his current situation at Manchester United can't be prolonged for more than one season. 

Mail Sport reported last week that Manchester United football direction John Murtough flew out to Saudi Arabia to discuss potential exits for Varane, Jadon Sancho, Casemiro, Anthony Martial, among other players.

Murtough is understood to have left Saudi Arabia without reaching agreement on any transfers, but established some important new relationships for United and further talks are planned. 

Varane joined United for Real Madrid in the summer of 2021 and formed a formidable partnership with Lisandro Martinez last season.

However, with Martinez missing most of the current campaign through injury, Ten Hag has not stuck by the Frenchman who has often been fourth or fifth choice during the opening months of the season.

Varane's contract at Old Trafford expires in 2025, but it looks ever more likely with United's struggles this season, and the defender's lack of game time, that he will depart the club by next summer. 

He has also struggled with injuries in recent years which led to his retirement from international football at the beginning of the year.

It's claimed that he is 'aware of the difficulties' of playing every three days for the Red Devils.