Bayern identify "more realistic" Arsenal target as Raphael Varane alternative

21 November 2023 , 08:26

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Bayern identify "more realistic" Arsenal target as Raphael Varane alternative

Bayern Munich are plotting a sensational January swoop that could see them pry a key defender away from both Arsenal and Manchester United.

The German giants are currently prowling the market for potential additions to their backline and are believed to have identified both Arsenal's Takehiro Tomiyasu and United's Raphael Varane as potential options. In the case of Tomiyasu, it is believed that the versatility of the Japan international is what stands out to Bayern boss Thomas Tuchel.

Since joining Arsenal in the summer of 2021, the former Bologna star has been deployed in a number of positions across the Gunners defence. Mikel Arteta initially used Tomiyasu as a right-back, before eventually starting him on the opposite flank as a more traditional left-back than first-choice Oleksandr Zinchenko.

As proven by his performances for his country, Tomiyasu can also feature as a central defender. However, with his deal approaching its final 18 months, Arsenal wish to start discussions with the 25-year-old over penning an extension.

Bayern may have a fight on their hands, but a club of their stature is hard to ignore. That also applies in Varane's instance, who may have his head turned by the bright lights of the Allianz while he struggles to get back into a struggling United side.

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The France international has not completed 90 minutes in the Premier League for Erik ten Hag's side since the second game of the campaign. Varane has also failed to start for the Red Devils since the back end of September and as a result, speculation over an Old Trafford exit is rife.

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Raphael Varane has been linked with Bayern Munich (Getty Images)

Sky Sports Germany claim that those at the top of the Bayern hierarchy are keeping tabs on Varane's situation at United and believe the four-time Champions League winner could be available for a fee anywhere between €20million and €30million.

Unlike a potential move for Tomiyasu, Varane's eyewatering wages at United could be an obstacle to Bayern's ambitions of landing his signature. It is almost certain that the centre-back would have to take a pay-cut if he were to join the Bundesliga behemoths.

It is believed that within the walls of Bayern HQ, Tomiyasu is regarded as a more realistic transfer. Arteta may have something to say about that, but with Tuchel's side vying for the Bundesliga and the Champions League, it could be a difficult project for either one of the two defenders to turn down.

Josh O'Brien