Manchester United could use Donny van de Beek as a “key bargaining tool” in their attempts to sign Real Madrid defender Raphael Varane, according to the Sun.

Van de Beek is thought to be a target for the Spanish club, who are willing to pay a £2m loan fee, as well as all of his wages, in addition to an option to buy next summer.

Arsenal have also been linked with the Dutchman but the midfielder is more likely to be interested in moving to Madrid, who tried to sign him before United snapped him up for £35m last year.

If United do accept Real’s loan offer for van de Beek, it is believed it will help them to seal Varane’s signature. While the Frenchman is thought to have agreed personal terms with the Red Devils, there is some dispute over the transfer fee.

Varane’s asking price varies depending on what report you read, with valuations ranging from €50m to €80m, but Real are likely to be more amenable to letting the defender leave for a reasonable figure if they can sign van de Beek.

Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain are also said to be interested in Varane so any advantage that United can get in the race to secure the 28-year-old’s signature could be crucial.