Chelsea Transfer News: Raphael Varane Admits Life Isn't Perfect at Real Madrid

Real Madrid's Raphael Varane has spoken out on his lack of minutes and responsibilities in the Spanish capital, alerting potential suitors like Chelsea that the youngster may be interested in a change of scenery if things don't change.

The highly touted centre-back, who became France's youngest captain earlier this year, per 101 Great Goals, frequently finds himself sitting on Los Blancos' bench behind the duo of Sergio Ramos and Pepe. As reported by the Daily Star's Bruce Archer, it's a situation he's hoping to change soon:

"It's different with the national team. I get more minutes and have more responsibility in the team," he said. "The aim is to reach the same level of involvement in the club"

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After France's friendly against Sweden had finished last week, the 21-year-old had actually played more minutes on the international level than for his club this year, according to OptaJean (translated by Lensois In The USA):

Chelsea and Manchester United are reportedly interested in a move for the French international, who has already established himself as one of the best centre-backs in all of football and is expected to develop into the very best in the coming years.

The Huddersfield Daily Examiner's Jonas Giaever didn't question his potential when discussing the future of French football:

Neither did Spanish football expert Sergi Dominguez after watching him against Sweden:

With such high praise, it's a little surprising the youngster has made just three starts in La Liga so far, per WhoScored.com. Manager Carlo Ancelotti has mainly used Varane in the Champions League this season, opting for the more experienced Pepe on the domestic level.

It's easy to see why—Real Madrid are on an incredible win streak of 14 matches, via WhoScored, and the duo of Pepe and Ramos has done an excellent job in the heart of the back four during that span. There's no reason to risk upsetting that equilibrium by introducing Varane, as talented as he may be.

The Frenchman made his comments when asked about the difference between the national team and Real, but he never discussed leaving or even mentioned he was unhappy. He appears determined to earn his spot in the starting XI, not force Ancelotti's hand by threatening with a transfer.

His obvious potential makes him an unlikely transfer candidate, as Los Blancos would no doubt hold out for a massive transfer fee should any potential suitors step forward with an offer.

Real also only carry four centre-backs in the squad right now, and while Nacho has flashed some potential this season, the 24-year-old simply wouldn't be sufficient cover for the starting duo in case of injury or suspension.

Jose Mourinho is a known admirer of Varane, something he made clear last season when he called the Frenchman "the best young defender in the world" in an interview with The Sun (h/t Daily Mail's Elliott Bretland): "I think he is the best young central defender in the world. Already I think he's the best."

But while the Blues aren't exactly strapped for cash, neither are Los Blancos. It would take a gargantuan offer to convince Real to move Varane, and with no clear need for another centre-back, it's unlikely Chelsea will launch such an offer.

Unless the current situation holds and Varane openly demands a transfer to another club, it's highly unlikely the Frenchman will be leaving the Spanish capital anytime soon. The Blues will certainly keep an eye on the situation, but fans shouldn't start getting their hopes up just yet.

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