Why Manchester United would be crazy to go ahead and swap De Gea for Varane
Real Madrid’s relentless pursuit of Manchester United goalkeeper David De Gea has been dominating the headlines during every single transfer window over the last couple of years and the upcoming summer window will be no different.
Even with a few months to go before the window’s reopening, there have been reports suggesting that the reigning European champions could come calling for De Gea once more – this time, Jose Mourinho has demanded Raphael Varane in exchange.
It is no secret that De Gea almost moved to Real back in 2015 but the move fell through at the eleventh hour. A lot has changed since then but Los Blancos continue to harbour an interest in the ‘flying Spaniard’. In fact, they were even ready to offer Gareth Bale on a swap deal but given the amount of attacking options at Mourinho’s disposal – not to mention Bale’s tendency to pick up injuries – United are now eyeing a shock move for Varane instead.
Mourinho has been an ardent admirer of Varane for quite some time now. At 24 years of age, the defender has displayed exemplary skills at the back and is earmarked for a great future as well. To be fair, United could use a centre-back given Phil Jones’ and Eric Bailly’s tendencies to pick up injuries. Varane is known to make some important interceptions along with a few well-timed clearances. However, is he worth signing at the risk of losing De Gea?
Most certainly not.
De Gea has been an instrumental figure at Old Trafford right from the time of the legendary Sir Alex Ferguson and he occupies a uniquely special place in the heart of every single United fan. Even when one does not consider the emotional aspect, the fact is that he has rescued the club from scores of sticky situations throughout this season.
It is an important term for both Mourinho and United and although they are occupying 2nd spot in the league table now, it is safe to admit that they would not have enjoyed all these successes without De Gea.
While Varane is an option worth exploring, he is not worth losing De Gea for. In fact, one might even go on to say that no player is worth losing the Spanish goalkeeper for since his influence for United has been unparalleled. Hence, there is absolutely no doubt that Real will end up as the winners if this deal goes through and the Red Devils must do everything they can to retain De Gea beyond the end of the summer window.