Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti has informed Chelsea that they must pay £19m for French defender Raphael Varane.
The young French defender was in superb form for his country during the World Cup in Brazil and was named amongst the nominees for the Young Player of the tournament and his quality has seen two of Europe’s biggest clubs show interest this summer.
Varane initially made the breakthrough at Madrid under the guidance of now Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho but the youngster found playing time hard to come by last season under new boss Carlo Ancelotti.
Chelsea have also shown interest with Blues boss Mourinho wanting to strengthen his centre-back options and a January move has gained pace after Ancelotti told the West London club that they can sign the defender for £19m.
A move is now expected as Varane is seen as the perfect replacement for John Terry, who is ageing towards retirement.
