Real Madrid star Raphael Varane has revealed that he turned down a move to Manchester United in 2011, as reported by the Daily Star.
In a wide reaching interview with French outlet L’Equipe, he revealed that the fact that Man Utd had just signed Phil Jones from Blackburn Rovers was the reason that he instead chose to sign for Real Madrid, rather than moving to Old Trafford.
Jones was an expensive signing from Blackburn, and it seemingly made Varane feel as though there would be few first team opportunities if he were to join Alex Ferguson’s side.
He said: “Manchester United? They had just signed Phil Jones in my position.”
Varane also revealed that he had an offer on the table from Paris Saint Germain, but was put off by the chaos that ensued after the purchase of the club by Qatari Sports Investments.
He also said that he was not necessarily keen on moving to Real, until he spoke to Jose Mourinho, who confirmed that he would be given first team opportunities.
