Manchester United centre-back Raphael Varane has explained how legendary manager Sir Alex Ferguson actually paid a visit to his mother's house when the Red Devils were first interested in his signature.
Prior to the Frenchman's switch to Spanish giants Real Madrid, Varane's performances had caught the eye of a number of European giants including United who began to put the feelers out.
During an interview with United's in-house media, the 28-year-old was asked whether there was any truth behind rumours Ferguson had met him personally in a bid to try and convince him to join.
"Yeah, he came to my mother’s house and it was a special moment. I was very young and it was a great experience," Varane explained.
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Pressed on whether he felt like it was his destiny to join United at some point in his career, Varane confessed he had been admiring goings on at Old Trafford from afar.
"Yes. Manchester United has always been a special club for me, with a big history. I always followed this club and, you know, I have great memories about, for example, Champions League or great games the Premier League," he claimed.
"Obviously, it’s a great club and, of course, I always followed Manchester United."
Varane has been a shining light during some turbulent times for United this season with the Red Devils title tilt falling apart before the festive period.
Now, their attentions have turned to securing Champions League football for next term and Varane has discussed his adjustment to life in the English top flight.
"Yeah, the games are very difficult. You can’t be relaxed, you can be winning a game and you know if you have 10 minutes to play, anything can happen.
"I think it’s the best league in the world and the intensity is absolutely amazing.
"Every team has players with top quality. Tactically, it’s a very high level and there are a lot of players and coaches from everywhere.
"So it’s a mix about different cultures and different styles of players and of mentality.
"I think that is why the league is top because it's the best from everywhere, you know."
Interim boss Ralf Rangnick has conceded that fourth place is the best United can do right now but even that will be a tall order.
Speaking before his side's home clash against Brighton, the Germain said: "Right now United to finish fourth is the highest possible achievement we can get. Champions League, not an easy one. In the league it's number four.
"Next season, after being here 11 weeks, I know what it takes but it's not the time now to discuss this with everyone."
The Red Devils currently sit fifth in the table, with Arsenal breathing down their necks just a point behind despite boasting two games in hand over United.
