Varane set for Real Madrid stay

French daily newspaper Le 10 Sport has learned that Real Madrid defender Raphael Varane has decided to stay at Vicente Calderon.

The France international had been unhappy by the lack of playing time and with top European clubs casting admiring glances his way, he was hoping to leave for greener pastures this summer.

However, Le 10 Sport claims that he has been persuaded to stay with los Blancos, who see him as an important player for the future.

Head coach Zinedine Zidane has had a long discussion with Varane, and the defender eventually decided to remain at the club and fight for his place.

Raphael Varane, 23, is widely regarded as one of Europe’s most talented defenders and he is expected to replace Pepe in the starting line-up in the near future.

The centre-back has so far made 91 La Liga appearances since joining from Nantes, and he was forced to miss the Euro 2016 finals through injury.