Real Madrid Transfer News: Sergio Ramos, Raphael Varane Chelsea Rumours Grow

In Sergio Ramos and Raphael Varane, Real Madrid boast two of the most naturally talented central defenders around. But there have been worrying reports emerge regarding the potential long-term future of each player at the Santiago Bernabeu.

Starting with Ramos, it is claimed by Jose Luis Guerrero of AS that negotiations regarding a new deal between the talismanic defender and the club are in “neutral” and that no discussions have taken place between the club or any of the players’ representatives in six months.

Here’s a look at why Ramos is rated as one of the finest centre-backs in world football:

There doesn’t seem to be any cause for immediate alarm, with Guerrero stating that Ramos “wants to retire at Madrid.” But it is claimed that the defender wants a larger share of some of the money that came Real’s way on the back of their 10th European Cup triumph in 2014.

Alex Livesey/Getty Images

As noted by Bleacher Report UK, Ramos has enjoyed myriad successes during his time in the Spanish capital:

At the moment, it merely seems as though the two parties are way off in their negotiations. Though reports linking Manchester United, Arsenal and Chelsea with a swoop for the player, per Anthony Chapman of the Express, may trigger some concerns for Madridistas, their fears should be minimal when it comes to the defender.

Indeed, when Iker Casillas eventually hangs up his boots or sets off in search of pastures new, Ramos looks as though he has all the qualities to take over the captaincy of this enormous club. It's a challenge you suspect he would relish and a mantle that’d only serve to reaffirm the legendary status he already holds among the Los Blancos faithful.

Chelsea Preparing £40 Million Bid for Varane

Gonzalo Arroyo Moreno/Getty Images

According to The Sun (h/t Marc Williams of the Daily Star), Chelsea will make a move for young Frenchman Raphael Varane in the summer and trump Manchester United by offering a whopping £40 million.

As noted in the piece, Varane has struggled to establish himself as a first-team regular at the Bernabeu this season. It’s also claimed that he could push for a transfer in order to receive regular minutes and shed the tag of “luxury substitute.”

Here’s a look at what the defender could potentially offer the Blues should a deal be struck:

Indeed, while the Frenchman seems to have all the requisite qualities to force his way into the side, Carlo Ancelotti seems to prefer the duo of Pepe and Sergio Ramos at the heart of his back four. While this is frustrating for the 21-year-old, if he wants to make it at a club such as Real, he’s going to have to be patient and seize his opportunities when they arise.

David Ramos/Getty Images

It’s something he’s already done with distinction on the international stage. As noted by OptaJean, Varane is now an immovable figure in the France team despite their array of quality centre-back options:

The prospect of working with Jose Mourinho once again will surely appeal to Varane, as would the chance to test himself in the Premier League and the promise of a more significant role in a team that looks poised to challenge on all fronts once again next season.

But his time will surely come at Real Madrid. Varane is rated as one of the best young defenders in the world for a reason, and though Pepe’s recent form makes him Ancelotti’s current preference, a changing of the guard is surely imminent. With that in mind, expect Los Blancos to be reluctant to sell the Frenchman.