“I’m done. I can’t keep up with being treated like I’m not trying my best for the club” – key Barcelona player is reportedly ready to depart Spain, with several Premier League clubs expressing interest as Fabrizio Romano has provided an update on Star
If Ronald Araujo decides to leave Barcelona this summer, Manchester United is prepared to make an official offer to sign him, according to Sport.
The Uruguayan international Araujo’s contract with the Catalan club is still valid for another two years. Barcelona would want to have him around for another 24 months, but they are unable to pay him a “top-level” wage due to budgetary restrictions.
In the impending transfer window, a number of teams are prepared to treble Araujo’s pay.
Even though he turned down United’s offers in 2022 in favor of agreeing to a new deal, Sport reports (page 2) indicate that the Red Devils are still interested in signing him.
According to reports, United has already informed Araujo’s agents that they want to make a formal offer should he decide to leave during the upcoming transfer window.
Bayern Munich investigated the possibility of signing the Uruguayan defender earlier this year, so United has competition in their pursuit of Araujo.
Bayern is prepared to negotiate Joshua Kimmich’s exit as long as Araujo moves in the other direction because they are aware of Barcelona’s persistent interest in him.
Araujo is eager to settle his club status before to the start of the Copa America.
The asking price will determine United’s chances of obtaining Araujo. At the moment, United is getting ready for Raphael Varane to go on a free transfer.
With a weekly salary of £340,000, the Frenchman, who is among their best earners, is unlikely to have his contract extended.
Araujo is thought to be a good Varane substitute because of his adeptness in aerial duels and great ball-playing abilities.
According to sources, Barcelona is seeking a sum closer to £80 million for the 25-year-old center defender, despite Transfermarkt’s valuation of him at £60 million.
But United’s failure to qualify for the Champions League the next season would make it more difficult for them to achieve such high financial expectations.
Bayern Munich’s involvement also adds another level of intricacy. Barcelona could be more interested in a possible trade involving Kimmich, given that manager Xavi has made acquiring a top defensive midfield player a top priority.
Therefore, United will have difficulty arranging a summer transfer for Araujo, especially with Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s administration now in charge. The club could be reluctant to go beyond budget considering the current situation and the fierce competition from other bidders.
