Jonathan Varane left Sporting Gijón to join Queens Park Rangres in August of last year and impressed in his debut season in England.
The defensive midfielder played 43 games in all competitions for QPR, managing a goal and two assists in the process.
Jeunes Footeux report AS Saint-Étienne are looking at the QPR player to improve their midfield next season. They have been relegated from Ligue 1 and want to a build a squad that can help them return to the top flight.
Their aim is to strengthen the midfield, and the 23-year-old has been identified as the main target.
He enjoyed an impressive season with the Championship side and has experience of playing in France with RC Lens. Taking these factors into account, the report says Saint-Étienne’s plan to bet on Varane is ‘no coincidence’.
Sunderland’s Pierre Ekwah has been on loan with the French club. He impressed for them and Saint-Étienne feel Varane can replace the Black Cats man next season.
Jeunes Footeux say the ‘timing seems perfect’ for them to chase Varane. They further add all that’s remaining is for them to convince QPR to sanction his sale, which may not be as easy as hoped.
QPR are in the process of appointing Julien Stéphan as their new manager very soon. He could have a say on the Frenchman, who has a contract until 2028.
