Real Madrid star Raphael Varane reveals why he said no to Manchester United transfer

RAPHAEL VARANE has revealed he almost signed for Manchester United last season - and why he turned them down.

The Real Madrid defender made history last night by being part of the side that became the first to successfully defend the Champions League.

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And it was the faith shown in him by Bernabeu boss Zinedine Zidane that made him stay in Madrid rather than reunite with Jose Mourinho.

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Frenchman Varane, who has now won Europe's top club competition three times, said: "I preferred to discuss with the leaders and the coach to know if they had confidence in me.

"They did, so I got my head down."

Mourinho retains a keen interest in bringing Varane to Old Trafford and could test the water again in the summer transfer window.

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And you can even go back to Alex Ferguson's reign to see how long the club have held an interest in Varane.

The legendary Old Trafford manager wanted to bring in Varane after he impressed in his debut season at Lens.

However, Varane rejected Fergie's offer after the club gave Phil Jones a five-year deal.

Many doubted Varane's ability when he went to the Bernabeu and he says it was that criticism which spurred him on.

Varane added: "That's what some people thought and it motivated me.

"It takes a great strength of character to arrive at Real at 18 years and make a journey like I have so far."