Many have pointed out Manchester City’s defensive frailties this season, despite the Premier League champions conceding just 21 goals in the Premier League this year – the lowest in the league. Nevertheless, with the future of Joleon Lescott yet to be decided, not to mention injury to Vincent Kompany, defensive reinforcements have been mooted.
One of those linked with a move to the Etihad Stadium is young Real Madrid defender Raphael Varane. The Frenchman, who can also play in midfield, has become a regular in Jose Mourinho’s starting XI this season after initially struggling for game time following his arrival from Lens in 2011.
Dubbed the new Fernando Hierro at the Estadio Santiago Bernabeu, the 19-year-old has shot to prominence in recent weeks following an impressive performance for Real Madrid during his sides 1-1 Copa Del Rey draw with Barcelona, during which he made a goalline clearance from a Xavi effort before heading in past Pinto at the other end.
His versatility would undoubtedly become an asset to manager Roberto Mancini, with Varane also capable of playing his trade at full-back. Nevertheless, Real would likely be unwilling to sell one of their prized assets to a team that could, theoretically, rival them in the Champions League in the foreseeable future, but the interest in Varane would no doubt come as no surprise to any.