Manchester United have now told one of Europe’s best defenders they are ready to bid for him this summer.
The Red Devils have endured a disappointing campaign under Erik ten Hag, with goalscoring a real problem at Old Trafford.
Manchester United have scored just 52 goals in 34 Premier League games so far this season – the same amount as Bournemouth, Brighton and Brentford.
However, it seems that plans are being put in place to bolster the centre of defence first, amid a difficult season with injuries in that department – Raphael Varane, Jonny Evans and Lisandro Martinez have all spent extended spells on the sidelines this term.
So, which defender are Manchester United ready to bid for? Let’s take a look…
Manchester United send message to Ronald Araujo
Well – according to Spanish news outlet SPORT – Manchester United have been in contact with Barcelona No.4 Ronald Araujo.
It is said that the Red Devils have told the Uruguay international they are ready to submit a formal offer to Barcelona if he expresses a desire to leave Catalonia this summer.
SPORT explain how Araujo is one of the most important players at Barcelona, although the South American is currently stalling over a contract renewal, as it does not take him into the highest earners at the Camp Nou.
His current deal expires in July 2026.
The Uruguayan is said to be keen on staying at Barcelona, but would like a salary to reflect his status as one of the best defenders in Europe – something the Spanish giants are unable to do right now given their financial restrictions.
SPORT do not mention any kind of asking price for Araujo if he does decide to pursue a transfer this summer, although Barcelona will surely demand a huge figure from Manchester United and any other interested parties, given the 25-year-old’s astronomical €1bn (£855m) release clause.
The Rivera-born defender has made 35 appearances in all competitions for Barcelona so far this season, scoring one goal while also providing one assist.
Rio Ferdinand doubts a move will happen
Rio Ferdinand has already shared his thoughts on a swoop for Araujo – and he doubts the Barcelona star would want to join Manchester United.
Speaking on Vibe with Five after the 3-0 loss to Bournemouth in December, the 45-year-old said: “If I’m a player like Araujo who, I think, has every attribute to be one of the best defenders in the world, why are you going United?
“I’d be looking at Varane and going, bruv, if he can go United and get benched for a left-back, for an old vet Jonny Evans, an old ex-player who’s come back for his twilight years, and then someone who used to be captain who was left out for 18 months, who’s back in form now and playing, I can’t go there and risk my life and risk my career.”
In truth, we can’t really argue with that.
If Manchester United want to convince players of Araujo’s quality to join, a lot needs to change at Old Trafford this summer – to say the least.
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