Manchester United target Raphael Varane pictured returning to Real Madrid

Raphael Varane has returned to Real Madrid ahead of pre-season as Manchester United continue to try and thrash out a deal for the World Cup winner.

The Red Devils' pursuit of Varane has been public knowledge for some time now, with various reports suggesting an agreement between the two clubs could be on the horizon.

However, the Madrid press have been quick to quash such rumours, claiming Real have no intention of accepting a cut-price offer for the Frenchman and will instead hold out for €70m (£60m).

90min recently revealed that United are both 'hopeful and excited' over a deal for Varane, yet the defender is clearly in no mood to burn bridges with Real and has now been spotted returning to the club's training ground for the first time ahead of the new season.

Los Blancos are yet to kick off their pre-season campaign with their first outing against Rangers just a few days away.

Despite being pictured returning for club duty, it's unlikely that Varane will play any part in his side's clash with the Scottish Premiership champions having only reported to the Valdebebas training complex to undergo medical tests ahead of pre-season.

We'll no doubt be treated to constant updates on Varane's whereabouts this summer as fans look to gage whether United are any closer to completing a deal for France international.

With just one year remaining on his current deal, Madrid are at serious risk of losing Varane for free next summer if he doesn't pen fresh terms in the near future - but Los Blancos are said to be quietly confident they'll be able to tie him down before his current deal expires.

Unsurprisingly, United have a very different view of the situation, and they're in no mood to up their first offer of €40m (£34.2m) as they're confident Real will eventually admit defeat and be forced to accept said bid.