Man Utd handed Varane boost, receive Lingard interest and Pogba provides update

Manchester United have been handed a huge boost in their pursuit of Real Madrid defender Raphael Varane.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer had been monitoring the Frenchman throughout the season as his deal at the Bernabeu is entering the last 12 months.

The Red Devils were originally looking at a £60m fee for the 28-year-old – but they have been handed some good news ahead of negotiations.

But there could be some players heading out the door too as West Ham are stepping up their efforts to secure Jesse Lingard’s signature.

Both of these stories, plus Paul Pogba speaking out on his contract with the club, are covered in Daily Star Sport’s transfer round-up…

United handed Varane boost

Solskjaer has targeted the Madrid defender, whose contract with the Spanish giants runs out in 12 months’ time, to partner Harry Maguire in defence.

One problem they were dealing with, though, was the Frenchman’s price as the World Cup-winner was valued at £60m by the Bernabeu side.

But Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo have reported that the club have dropped Varane’s price by nearly a third, making him available for £43m.

Who do you think Man Utd should sign this summer? Let us know in the comments section.

Hammers ‘push’ for Lingard deal

One of United’s best performers in the second half of the season was playing for West Ham as Lingard scored nine goals and made five assists on loan since January.

It has seen speculation grow that David Moyes would look to sign him permanently ahead of the Europa League campaign.

And The Sun reported that Moyes is now keen to press ahead and secure a deal to bring him to east London on a permanent basis.

An insider said: “Jesse knows we want him, so hopefully the club will pursue him in the next month or so.”

Pogba issues cheeky contract update

United’s £89m midfielder is apparently closing in on a new contract at Old Trafford, with super-agent Mino Raiola in discussions.

But there were some concerns as PSG expressed an interest in the Frenchman following a period of uncertainty over his future earlier this year.

Footage emerged from the Euro 2020 squad’s camp, though, of Pogba appearing to shut down any claims of a move.

Interrupting an interview with PSG star Prensel Kimpembe and ex-team-mate Kinglsey Coman, they ask him: “Nasser [Al-Khelaifi, PSG president], any contact?”

And the 28-year-old quickly said “no” before running away and leaving the pair laughing.

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