Varane insists he is '100% committed' to despite links to Chelsea

  /  autty

Raphael Varane has played down speculation he could join Champions League semi-final opponents Chelsea this summer, insisting his focus is solely on Real Madrid.

Spanish publication Mundo Deportivo claimed on Sunday that the Blues have jumped ahead of Manchester United in the race to sign Varane for £61million this summer.

But the Frenchman has claimed that he is '100 per cent committed' to the club, despite reports that he will push for a move away at the end of the season.

Speaking in a press conference ahead of Tuesday's first leg clash against Thomas Tuchel's side, Varane said: ''My future is clear: my focus is on the end of the season.

'We are in a very intense minute, we have to be focused on the games that lie ahead.'

Pressed on whether he would extend his contract beyond the end of next season, the defender added: 'It is normal that my focus is on the end of the season.

'The message to the fans is that I am 100 per cent committed to the team. We have challenges that encourage us a lot. I am focused on giving everything on the field.'

Varane is set to play a key role in Tuesday's Champions League semi-final first leg, with captain Sergio Ramos ruled out as he recovers from injury.

The Frenchman expects a tough game against Chelsea, who have turned their season around since Tuchel's arrival as manager in late January.

'Chelsea is a very complete team,' Varane said.

'They have players of different qualities. The important thing is that we adapt well to what we are going to face.

'They have the ability to play with the block higher or further back. And they can create danger at any moment. The best thing is to defend together.'

More to follow.

Related: Chelsea Real Madrid Tuchel Varane
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