Former Manchester United defender Raphael Varane is set to move to Serie A side Como, under the management of Cesc Fabregas, next season.

Raphael Varane – former Manchester United and Real Madrid centre-back, is on the verge of a new chapter in his career. According to information from journalist Fabrizio Romano, Varane is about to complete a move to Como, a newly promoted Serie A team.

Varane joined Manchester United from Real Madrid in 2021 with great expectations. During his three years with the Red Devils, the 31-year-old made significant contributions, helping the team win the FA Cup and Carabao Cup. His final game for United was the FA Cup final against Manchester City at Wembley, marking the end of his contract with the club.

On May 14, Manchester United officially confirmed that Varane will leave the club this summer. This decision was made after MU decided not to activate the automatic 12-month extension option in his contract.

Varane leaves Manchester United after 3 years. Photo: Getty.

Varane has been linked with a move to the Saudi Pro League or MLS since leaving Manchester United. However, it looks like Serie A could be his next destination. According to Fabrizio Romano, Varane is close to signing a two-year contract with Como, running until June 2026, with an option to extend for a further year until 2027.

Como, who have just been promoted to Serie A after a 21-year absence, are making a big splash in the transfer market. Signing a player of Varane’s quality and reputation is a significant achievement for the club.

Having faced each other in many El Clasico matches in the past, Fabregas and Varane will now meet again as teacher and student. Photo: Getty.

Cesc Fabregas – former Chelsea and Arsenal star, now manager of Como, is said to have played a key role in convincing Varane to join the team. Fabregas is not only the manager but also owns shares in Como, so he has long-term ambitions with the club.

Como are building a remarkable squad with a number of former Premier League stars, and have also signed former Liverpool duo Pepe Reina and Alberto Moreno this summer.

The French centre-back will sign a two-year contract, with an option for a one-year extension, with Como. Photo: X Fabrizio Romano.

At Como, Varane will have to compete directly with Jay Idzes, a newly naturalized Indonesian centre-back who was a mainstay of the team last season with 30 appearances. This will be a new challenge for Varane, requiring him to quickly adapt to the new environment and Serie A style of football.

With a wealth of experience and impressive achievements, including multiple Champions League titles with Real Madrid and a World Cup with the French national team, Varane is expected to bring Como the stability in defense and the winning spirit needed to help the team stay in the league next season.