Reports from Sport indicate that Manchester United is actively preparing a formal proposal to secure the services of Barcelona defender Ronald Araujo should he decide to leave the club this summer. Araujo, an Uruguayan international, still has two years left on his contract with Barcelona. Despite the club’s desire to extend his contract, financial limitations are hindering them from offering a top-tier salary.
Several other clubs are ready to double Araujo’s current wages in the upcoming transfer window. This has put pressure on Barcelona to resolve Araujo’s contract situation swiftly.
Even though Manchester United’s advances were rejected by Araujo back in 2022 when he chose to sign a new contract, recent reports suggest that the Red Devils are persistently interested in bringing him to Old Trafford.
According to Sport, Manchester United has already communicated their intentions to Araujo’s representatives regarding presenting a formal offer if Araujo expresses a desire to leave Barcelona during the next transfer period. However, United faces stiff competition for Araujo’s signature.
Bayern Munich has also shown interest in Araujo, exploring the possibility of signing the Uruguayan defender earlier this year. Bayern is aware of Barcelona’s interest in Joshua Kimmich and is open to negotiating a swap deal involving Araujo and Kimmich.
Araujo himself is keen on resolving his club future before the Copa America begins, indicating a sense of urgency in the ongoing negotiations.
United’s pursuit of Araujo is influenced by the impending departure of Raphael Varane on a free transfer. Varane’s high wages make it unlikely for United to extend his contract, making Araujo an attractive replacement due to his strong defensive attributes and ball-playing skills.
However, Barcelona’s valuation of Araujo at around £80 million poses a significant financial challenge for Manchester United, especially considering their failure to secure Champions League qualification for the next season.
The potential complexity of a swap deal involving Kimmich adds another layer of uncertainty to United’s pursuit of Araujo. Barcelona might find a swap deal more enticing, especially with Xavi’s priority being the acquisition of an elite defensive midfielder.
United’s ability to orchestrate a deal for Araujo may also be influenced by the club’s financial strategy under new management. Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s leadership may lead to a cautious approach to spending, given the competitive landscape and financial demands of the transfer market.