Raphael Varane issues injury update after being forced off at Brentford

Manchester United centre-back Raphael Varane said that the injury he picked up against Brentford in Saturday's Premier League contest was "not too bad".

The ex-France international was substituted at the interval of the clash in West London, having taken a knock in the first period in a challenge with Brentford's Ivan Toney.

After the match, Man United head coach Erik ten Hag said that Varane had been withdrawn "as a precaution".

Victor Lindelof was also substituted in the second period with what looked to be a hamstring issue, and the Sweden international will undergo a scan to determine the extent of the damage.

"I can't tell by now. Rapha we took him off as a precaution at half-time and Victor he came off but we have to assess him tomorrow," Ten Hag told reporters when quizzed on the centre-back duo.

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Varane will need to be assessed ahead of Chelsea

Varane, while heading for the team bus, was asked about his injury, and the Manchester Evening News quoted him as responding "not too bad".

The 30-year-old has been an important player for Man United this season, making 29 appearances in all competitions, including 20 outings in the Premier League.

Varane spent a period earlier this season out of the team, but he has been a regular in recent months, with the Red Devils struggling with injuries in the middle of their defence.

Harry Maguire and Lisandro Martinez both featured off the bench at the Brentford Community Stadium, and the pair could be required to start against Chelsea in the team's next league match on April 4.

Varane will need to be assessed ahead of the contest at Stamford Bridge, but no risks will be taken with the experienced defender's fitness at this stage of the campaign.

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Varane's future at Old Trafford remains unclear

The former Real Madrid defender only has a contract with Man United until the end of June, and it remains to be seen whether he will stay at Old Trafford beyond the end of the season.

The Red Devils decided against activating a 12-month extension in Varane's contract earlier this year due to the Frenchman's substantial wages at the club.

Man United are said to be keen to keep hold of Varane, but he would have to be willing to accept a huge pay cut in order to sign a fresh deal at Old Trafford.

Jonny Evans is also out of contract at the end of June, while there remains speculation surrounding the futures of both Lindelof and Maguire.

Varane has made 92 appearances for Man United since his arrival from Real Madrid in the summer of 2021, scoring twice and registering one assist in the process.