Manchester United have been repeatedly linked with Ronald Araujo over the past month or so.
The Barcelona defender has a contract expiring in June 2023, and talks over a renewal haven’t gone well. A regular player in the team, Araujo has been offered much less than the vast majority of his teammates, and doesn’t feel he should accept less than what he’s worth, despite a general desire to stay where he is.
Problems in those talks have reportedly grown in recent weeks, and that presents a move to Manchester United as more of a possibility, rather than the rumour simply being a tool in negotiations.
Should there be no renewal by the summer, then Barcelona will likely look to sell, not wanting another Ousmane Dembele situation.
On March 16th, we covered claims Manchester United are ‘pushing hard’ for the signing, and on March 18th it was reported the Old Trafford club will ask Barca to name their price this summer.
Rather than in central defence, Araujo played on the right and was able to show his versatility.
The big performance adds to the player’s argument for a better renewal offer, but also means clubs like Manchester United will see any interest strengthened.
Now it’s down to Barcelona to decide whether to pay their player what he feels he’s worth, or cash in during the summer.
