Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag is unwilling to part ways with Raphael Varane and Casemiro in the January transfer window, according to ESPN.
The ex-Real Madrid duo—United’s two highest earners at the moment—have both been linked with potential exits next month, but their manager wants to see them remain at the Theatre of Dreams until the summer window at least.
Varane has entered the final few months of his Man United contract, meaning that he can start speaking to foreign clubs over a Bosman move when the winter market opens.
A switch to Saudi Arabia has been mooted for the 30-year-old, who only just returned to the starting lineup after a fairly lengthy spell on the bench.
Casemiro, meanwhile, has struggled for fitness this term having played just eight Premier League matches out of a possible 17.
While the Brazilian still has two-and-a-half years on his deal, his future in the red half of Manchester is far from secure.
United targeting January clearout as Ten Hag eyes cut-down squad
Following United’s exit from European football altogether earlier this month, Ten Hag is reportedly looking to trim down his squad size with the burden of continental football now lifted.
An early exit from the Champions League is also set to have significant financial ramifications for the Red Devils, who may have to sanction exits before making additions in January.
Midfielder Donny van de Beek is all but set to join Eintracht Frankfurt on a loan spell, while Jadon Sancho’s time at Old Trafford is increasingly coming to an end with United now contemplating a contract termination following the Englishman’s fall-out with Ten Hag.
Anthony Martial could also be on his way out in January after United decided not to trigger the one-year extension in his deal, meaning that he is now six months away from becoming a free agent.
