Manchester United Interested in Signing Barcelona Defender Ronald Araujo in Potential €80M Deal, Says Report

Manchester United are understood to have joined the race to sign one of Barcelona’s stars, Ronald Araujo. The Uruguayan defender has been in brilliant form with the Catalan giants, establishing himself as a crucial player in the defensive line-up.

Araujo’s sensational series of performances helped him in gaining the attention of other European powerhouses. As per journalist Florian Plettenberg, the Red Devils inquired about the defender’s transfer fee and contract details.

Plettenberg shared an update on the situation on social media platform X, formerly Twitter. “News Ronald #Araujo: ManUtd have inquired about the 24 y/o! #MUFC informed about transfer fee and contract details. They received the same information as Bayern: The transfer package in winter would be over €80 million. And Araujo wants to stay at Barca in winter. But He remains on the list of ManUtd for summer. He remains the top target for Bayern as Tuchel loves the player,” read the post.

Manchester United’s interest in Araujo comes at the back of their dire need for defensive reinforcements. With Raphael Varane’s future at the club still not clear and Lisandro Martinez struggling with injury problems, a defensive addition is needed for the Premier League outfit.

According to Plettenberg, Manchester United received the same information as Bayern Munich. The Bavarian giants are reportedly leading the race to sign the Barcelona defender and were previously informed that Araujo’s move to a different club during the winter transfer window would cost no less than €80 million. It has also been reported that the defender is currently not looking for a move outside Barcelona, making his potential transfer even more complicated.

Araujo arrived in Barcelona in 2018 from Uruguayan side Boston River. Barcelona were able to secure the 24-year-old in a deal worth around €1.7 million, along with add-ons. The youngster had then signed a five-year deal with the club while agreeing to a release clause worth €100 million. Since joining the club, Araujo has made a total of 133 appearances for Barcelona.

In April 2022, Ronald Araujo signed a new contract with the Blaugranas. As per the new deal, Araujo is set to remain at the club until 2026. His deal reportedly includes a massive release clause of €1 billion. His release clause makes it quite evident how much Barcelona want Araujo to stay at the club.