Raphael Varane thinks he will stay in France next year rather than move to either Man United or Bayern Munich.
Lens starlet set to make decision
Lens starlet Raphael Varane admits he thinks he will stay in France next year rather than move to either Manchester United or Bayern Munich.
Although he concedes that he could be sold and loaned back to a club in his homeland.
The 18-year-old has been followed closely by both United and Bayern, after making the breakthrough at relegated Lens last term.
He penned a new long-term deal with Lens during the season, but he has been widely tipped to move on this summer with United understood to be leading the chase.
But Varane, rated as one of the best defensive prospects in France, admits he may stay in France.
"Early in the season, my objective was to play as often as possible with the reserves. Finally I have played in Ligue 1," he told
FranceFootball.
"I am under contract at Lens until 2015. We are in talks with the chairman to find the best solution."
Loan option
Varane admits he could sign for another club and be loaned back, which may yet see him joining either United or Bayern.
"Am I going to improve in Ligue 1, and reach a new step? I have to make a choice. I can sign aboard and be loaned, or join another Ligue 1 club, or even remain at Lens," he continued.
"We talked about a departure and it seems there is no hostility from the club, even if I remain under contract.
"Interest from Bayern or Man Utd? It is greatly flattering to hear those names, and I even ask myself if that is really about me.
"But I can't dream. I have to think about it and join a club that will allow me to improve.
"Remaining in Ligue 1 seems to be the more sensible choice. The most important thing to me is time spent on the pitch."
