Manchester United chiefs are working this afternoon with the aim of closing a deal for Real Madrid defender Raphael Varane TONIGHT.

The centre back has been one of United's top transfer targets this summer with his Bernabeu deal set to expire next year. The two clubs have reportedly struck a £38.5million deal.

The final details could be ironed out as early as tonight.

The Manchester Evening News says he trained with the Spanish giants on Monday but travel plans have been sorted for his move to England.

United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer wants to partner Varane with captain Harry Maguire in the heart of his defence.