Former Manchester United defender Raphael Varane has completed a free transfer to Italian club Como. The 29-year-old French international left Old Trafford after just one season, despite having a year remaining on his contract.

Varane’s decision to exit Man United was reportedly motivated by the opportunity to work with Cesc Fabregas, who is Como’s technical director and sporting director. The former Spain midfielder has been instrumental in revamping Como’s youth academy and developing players for the first team.

Fabregas, a childhood friend of Varane’s, played alongside him at Barcelona before moving to England, where he had a successful spell with Chelsea. The two have maintained a close friendship over the years, which reportedly influenced Varane’s decision to join Como.

Como is currently competing in Serie C, Italy’s third tier. However, the club has ambitious plans to return to Serie A and Fabregas’ involvement has been seen as a major coup for the club.

Varane will be hoping to bring his experience and quality to Como’s defense as they bid to make a swift return to the top two tiers of Italian football.