Manchester United are prepared to make a formal offer to sign Barcelona defender Ronald Araujo if he decides to leave this summer, according to Sport.
The Uruguay international has two years left on his contract with the Catalan giants. The hierarchy are keen on prolonging his stay for another 24 months.
However, the Blaugrana are unable to provide a ‘top-level’ salary due to their financial constraints. Several clubs are willing to double Araujo’s wages this summer.
Araujo previously turned down United in 2022 to pen a new contract, but Sport (page 2) claim they remain interested in signing him.
United have ‘already informed’ the player’s entourage that they will ‘submit a formal offer’ if he is willing to move during the next transfer window.
The Red Devils are not alone in the pursuit of Araujo as Bayern Munich probed the possibility of signing the Uruguayan defender at the beginning of the year.
The German outfit are aware of Barcelona’s long-term interest in Joshua Kimmich. Bayern are open to discussing his exit as long as Araujo moves the other way.
Araujo wants to sort out his club future before the start of the Copa America.
United’s chances of signing Araujo depend on the price
United are currently preparing for the departure of Raphael Varane on a free transfer.
The Frenchman is one of their highest earners and the club have decided against triggering an extension clause to keep him for another year.
Unless the World Cup winner accepts a substantial pay cut on his £340,000-a-week salary, he could leave the club when his contract expires at the end of June.
Araujo would be a quality replacement with his strong ball-playing ability. He is also excellent when it comes to aerial challenges.
The centre-back is currently valued at £60 million by Transfermarkt, but the Blaugrana are reportedly eyeing close to £80m to sanction his exit.
The Red Devils are unlikely to make such a huge outlay after missing out on qualification for next season’s Champions League.
The other concern could be Bayern’s presence. A swap deal involving Kimmich could be more suitable for Barcelona, with manager Xavi craving an elite defensive midfielder.
A summer deal for Araujo could be difficult to pull off for United. The club are unlikely to pay over the odds under the new management controlled by Sir Jim Ratcliffe.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com & Capology.com
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