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Transfer News: Manchester United to target Ronald Araujo of Barcelona amidst Liverpool interest
According to ESPN, Manchester United have shown an interest in Barcelona defender Ronald Araujo amidst interest from Liverpool. Those who have watched him know that he has become one of Barca’s best defenders in a short period.
The Blaugrana club signed the 22-year-old from River Boston for a fee of €1.5million plus add-ons worth €3million in 2018. He initially joined Barcelona B side before getting called up to the first team. Being just 22 has not stopped him from being a leader at the back, and he has taken the opportunities handed to him with open hands.
Shortly after his promotion, he turned out to become the Spanish giants’ best centre-back and has had multiple excellent performances in the past few months. What makes it even more impressive is how he stood out in a team that has had defensive issues. That was the case in his last match against Villarreal, where he was crucial in ensuring that his team were the victors.
The Catalans fear the interest from potential suitors as they are currently in preliminary discussions with the player over an extension. They consider him a long-term asset and wants to tie him down on a lengthy contract as they did with Ansu Fati and Pedri.
The Uruguay international and his club are not on the same page on the monetary terms involved, which could pave the way for Man United to try their hand. However, they will face competition from Liverpool, who have been keeping tabs on him for a while.
Assessment
As Araujo’s current contract will expire in 2023, it would be a good opportunity for the Manchester club to take their chances. The La Liga club considers him essential and has prioritised a renewal. But, they are held back by their financial struggles, which has seen them suffer €481million in losses for the previous season.
The centre-back was immense in his club’s recent win over the Yellow Submarine by 3-1. Those who watched the match might have noticed how he used his pace and ability to read the game to shut out multiple attacks from the opponents. He is definitely one of the most talented centre-backs in Europe right now.
If we could get his services, it would be one of the wisest acquisitions we could make in terms of future-proofing our defence. Joan Laporta is preparing a five-year deal but, if the Uruguayan disagrees with the offer, United should keep an eye on the situation.
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It’s not like we lack a centre-back right now. Harry Maguire and Raphael Varane are the first-choice centre-backs at the club, with Victor Lindelof and Eric Bailly offering significant depth. But the future is something we can plan for and Araujo would be a top signing in that regard.
