Raphael Varane is set to join Serie A minnows Como in a surprise deal after his Manchester United departure, according to reports.

Varane, 31, saw his contract expire at Old Trafford shortly after winning the FA Cup and is thought to have attracted interest from a number of clubs.

However, Fabrizio Romano has now claimed the defender has accepted Como's proposal with Cesc Fabregas, their assistant coach, key to sealing the switch. 

Since leaving United, Varane has been linked with interest from David Beckham's Inter Miami in MLS as well as Como - who are part-owned by Fabregas.

Romano previously reported that the centre back had touched down in the city last month for talks with the club's board and is now said to have given his approval.

The documentation will be reviewed over the coming days, it is said, with Varane then scheduled to undergo a medical, the final hurdle before signing. 

Varane made 95 appearances in total during his spell at the Red Devils but endured three injury-hit campaigns after joining from Real Madrid in 2021.

He had previously featured 360 times for Madrid and won 18 trophies, including four Champions League titles and the LaLiga title on three occasions.

Two more cups were added to his career haul while at United - the Carabao Cup in 2023 and the FA Cup last season after a 2-1 victory against Manchester City.

Fabregas briefly stepped in as Como's caretaker manager between November and December last year and steered them to three wins from five games.

He was then replaced on a permanent basis by Osian Roberts, who led Como to second place in Serie B last season and therefore promotion to the top-flight. 

Roberts recently rejected the chance to take charge of the Welsh national team.

Varane had indicated he would have liked to play for one of his former clubs - namely Lens or Real Madrid - after departing United but neither made an approach.

He was also touted to make a lucrative move to the Saudi Pro League.