The Frenchman played a key role in securing the EFL Cup trophy for the Red Devils in the 2022-23 season under manager Erik ten Hag. The 30-year-old, a former stalwart for the French national team, retired from international football in March 2023 after contributing to France's World Cup triumph in 2018.
According to reports from French news outlet Foot01, Marseille, under the leadership of Italian manager Gennaro Gattuso, has identified Varane as a potential addition to their squad in the New Year. Marseille aims to climb back into the top three positions in the Ligue 1 standings, currently positioned in ninth place.
The report suggests that Marseille is in search of a top-quality central defender in the January transfer window, with Varane being a key target. Additionally, Gattuso's team is considering Napoli's Ostigard as another potential defensive addition, as the 24-year-old continues to impress in Naples.
Varane, who has featured in eight Premier League matches for Manchester United this season, scoring once in a 1-0 victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers in August, is reportedly drawing serious interest from Marseille. However, it is believed that Varane prefers to remain at Old Trafford beyond the conclusion of the January window.
Varane's contract with Manchester United expires at the end of the 2024-25 season, indicating that there is no immediate urgency for the Red Devils to part ways with the experienced centre-back for a transfer fee.