United look to Varane and Rice in the summer

Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is rumoured to have set two new centre-backs as his main priority for the summer transfer window.

West Ham United defender Declan Rice and Real Madrid centre-back Raphael Varane both look to be on top of the Norwegian’s transfer shortlist as they look to strengthen their backline.

United will undoubtedly be looking to push their City and North-West rivals next season to the Premier League title since their improvement after Jose Mourinho’s departure in December.

Rice, 20, has become a fan favourite for the Hammers over the course of the season and his substantial progress has also earned him two caps for Gareth Southgate’s England side over the last couple of weeks. Predominately known to play just in front of the back four, Rice will strengthen the Red Devils’ lineup even with the potential inclusion of Varane.

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The Frenchman has been rumoured to be leaving Los Blancos for several seasons now and the Premier League seems to be a perfect suit for the 25-year old. Since joining the club in 2011, Varane has made over 160 appearances for Madrid scoring four goals in a backline that is feared across Europe. Aside from his 55 caps and World Cup, Varane has won four Champions Leagues, two La Ligas and three Spanish Super Cups since 2011.

Solskjaer already has a number of defenders within his side and there is no doubt that one or two may have to make way before the introduction of Rice or Varane. Eric Bailly, Victor Lindelof, Chris Smalling and Phil Jones are currently in the pecking order at United but could be subject to make room for the Summer transfer targets.