What Sergio Ramos' exit could mean for Varane's Real Madrid future

Sergio Ramos' exit has not caught Real Madrid by surprise. They have known his decision for a while. Now that it's official, it opens a new scenario for Raphael Varane, who still has one year to run on his contract and has decided to leave if Madrid don't heed to his request for a pay rise.

Various options are on the table. Some assure that Varane will leave and others say that Ramos' departure means he is now likely to stay. His future is now being negotiated between the club and his representatives.

Ramos leaves a big gap in the middle of Madrid's backline but also frees them of a large salary, around 18 million euros gross, which they could now invest in keeping Varane, who wants around 11 million, the same as new signing David Alaba will be on.

If Madrid agree, they will have the four centre-backs they need for next season for new coach Carlo Ancelotti: Varane, Alaba, Militao and Nacho.

However, Varane is a player with a good reputation and who could bring in money in the transfer market, in contrast to the likes of Isco, Marcelo, Bale and Mariano. Madrid have out a 70 million price tag on the Frenchman, which would help them fund a deal for Kylian Mbappe, Florentino Perez's primary target.

Therefore, if Varane does not accept the nine million annual offer, the same as was offered to Ramos, which would be 3.5 million more than he earns at the moment, Madrid could transfer him.

Manchester United are among the clubs most interested in Varane, whose departure would open the door for Vallejo or Chust to be the fourth choice centre-back.