Real Madrid 'to make Raphael Varane talks difficult for Manchester United'

Real Madrid are reportedly planning to make it difficult for Manchester United to sign Raphael Varane during this summer's transfer window.

The Red Devils are believed to have identified the France international as their leading defensive target, and the World Cup winner is thought to be open to the idea of leaving the Bernabeu this summer.

Real Madrid are not in a strong position to negotiate, as the centre-back's contract is due to expire next June, but according to Defensa Central, Los Blancos will not make it easy for Man United to complete a deal.

The report claims that the English club's current offer of €50m (£43m) is considered to be 'insufficient', and the La Liga giants want to make it difficult for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's side, as they are not pleased with how the Premier League outfit handled previous negotiations for David de Gea and Paul Pogba.

Real Madrid president Florentino Perez is thought to be looking for a fee in the region of €65m (£55.9m) for Varane, who represented France at this summer's European Championship.

The 28-year-old has made 360 appearances for Los Blancos since arriving from Lens in 2011, winning three La Liga titles and four Champions League crowns in the process.