- Barcelona has set a deadline for contract offers to Araujo, indicating a willingness to negotiate but also a recognition of his potential value to other clubs.
- Manchester United is in competition with Bayern Munich for Araujo’s services, with the Red Devils prepared to make a significant bid to secure his transfer.
- The transfer of Araujo is part of Manchester United’s strategy to address their need for a new center-back, following the potential departure of Raphael Varane.
Newsypeople- Manchester United is poised to start negotiations for the transfer of Barcelona defender Ronald Araujo, with the deal subject to two conditions set by Barcelona. The transfer saga has been fueled by Barcelona’s financial struggles, which have led them to consider selling their entire first-team squad, with Araujo being one of the most saleable assets.
Barcelona’s need to generate transfer funds to comply with FFP regulations has made Araujo, a 16-times capped Uruguayan, a prime target for potential buyers. Despite interest from Chelsea and Bayern Munich, Manchester United, under the leadership of Sir Jim Ratcliffe, has made the first move by opening talks with Barcelona over what could prove a game-changing signing.
Ratcliffe, inspired by Virgil van Dijk’s impact on Liverpool, sees Araujo as a potential equivalent for Manchester United. The fee for Araujo is reportedly around €100 million (£85 million), which is more than initially expected but a move Ratcliffe is willing to sanction if the price is right.
Barcelona’s conditions for the transfer include a 75% upfront payment of the agreed fee, which United could use to negotiate a lower price. Additionally, Barcelona wants a first refusal to sign Bruno Fernandes if Manchester United decides to let their captain move on. These conditions, coupled with the financial pressures Barcelona faces, have made Araujo’s departure from the Nou Camp a possibility this summer.
Araujo’s contract at Barcelona runs until 2026, and he is in talks with the club over extending the deal. However, Manchester United is willing to offer much more than Barcelona’s current offer, with reports suggesting they are ready to go beyond Bayern Munich’s €80m (£67m) bid. This indicates Manchester United’s serious intent to secure Araujo’s services, with the deal being seen as a significant part of their summer transfer plan. The Red Devils are targeting a new centre-back, with Raphael Varane likely to leave on a free transfer at the end of the season, making Araujo a crucial addition to their defensive lineup.
The transfer saga also includes Manchester United’s interest in Nice centre-back Jean-Clair Todibo, with the Reds expected to face competition from Atletico Madrid and AC Milan for his signature. This indicates a broader strategy by Manchester United to strengthen their squad ahead of the next season.
Manchester United’s negotiations for Ronald Araujo are a significant development in the transfer market, with the deal hinging on Barcelona’s financial needs and negotiating stance. The potential transfer of Araujo, along with Manchester United’s interest in other key players, signifies a strategic shift in the club’s approach to strengthening its squad for the upcoming season.
