Real Madrid have seemingly put an end to speculation linking Raphael Varane with a move to Manchester United after handing him the No. 5 shirt—the same number once donned by manager Zinedine Zidane.
That's according to Metro's George Bellshaw, who adds that in all likelihood "a move won’t be happening this summer" following the change in shirt number.
Sports journalist Jonas Giaever noted the significance of the change:
Curiously enough (or maybe not so?), that number has now been given to Raphael Varane https://t.co/Yd55ZDQCsx
— Jonas Giæver (@CheGiaevara) July 14, 2016
The Frenchman is already well on his way to becoming one of the best defenders in world football and at 23 his prime is still years away—once he combines further experience with the defensive intelligence he already possesses and his impressive pace, he could be the best centre-back in the world.