Manchester United has a “strong chance” of signing Barcelona defender Ronald Araujo, according to TEAMtalk. The report states that Sir Jim Ratcliffe has a “genuine belief” that the Uruguayan international will be signed this summer. Araujo is an important player for Barcelona, but due to the La Liga club’s financial crisis, it is expected that the centre-back will be transferred for a cost of around £85 million.
TEAMtalk claims that two requirements must be completed for the deal to proceed. Barcelona wants at least 75% of the transfer money paid up front, and they will also demand first refusal on Bruno Fernandes if the club captain ever leaves Old Trafford. Ratcliffe is allegedly willing to “open talks” about a trade for Araujo, but it is unclear whether he will accept the terms provided by Barcelona.
United will have to see off interest from rival Premier League clubs.
Last week, it was rumoured that Chelsea, like United, had communicated with Araujo’s intermediaries. Newcastle were also listed as prospective suitors. With Chelsea and Newcastle both likely to face concerns with the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability guidelines, it remains to be seen whether they are ready to pay the money required to recruit the 25-year-old.
Alternative center-back targets should be investigated.
Spending £85 million on one player may not be deemed a wise use of resources by United’s new recruitment squad, thus the club may choose for cheaper alternatives. Jean-Clair Todibo has long been a target for the Red Devils, and the Nice defender would cost half as much as Araujo. Another option may be Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi, who has a rumoured asking price of £55 million.
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