Manchester United have reportedly asked for information on Ronald Araujo's situation at Barcelona, with the Red Devils identifying the centre-back as a leading transfer target.
Bayern Munich continue to be heavily linked with the Uruguay international, and it is understood that the German champions are still pushing to sign him during the January transfer window.
However, Barcelona are unlikely to allow the defender to depart in the middle of the 2023-24 campaign unless a substantial offer from Allianz Arena arrives.
According to German journalist Florian Plettenberg, Bayern view him as their 'top target', with the German club's head coach Thomas Tuchel determined to secure his signature.
However, Plettenberg claims that there is also firm interest from the Premier League in the shape of Man United, with the Red Devils asking for details on the transfer fee and the defender's contract situation.
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Barcelona have allegedly said that the price for Araujo this winter would be in excess of €80m (£68.7m), while the South American is not interested in a mid-season transfer.
Man United are believed to be ready to battle Bayern for his signature later in the year, with the 20-time English champions looking to sign a high-profile centre-back.
Lisandro Martinez is seen as a key player for Man United, but the long-term futures of Raphael Varane, Harry Maguire, Victor Lindelof and Jonny Evans are all unclear.
Varane and Evans both only have deals until the end of the 2023-24 campaign, and the former is expected to be given the chance to make a lucrative move to Saudi Arabia this summer.
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Araujo has made 20 appearances for Barcelona this season, while he has represented the Catalan side on 133 occasions since arriving from Boston River in 2018.
Addressing his future last week, the 24-year-old said that he was "focused" on Barcelona and "happy" at the club amid the speculation surrounding his future.
"In all markets there is talk of transfers. But I'm focused on the club, I'm happy. And I always give my best when it's my turn to defend this shirt," Araujo told reporters.
"These are always rumours that come up in every market. There's always talk, but I'm focused on Barca and I always show it. I will always give 100%."
The defender signed a new contract at Camp Nou in April 2022, with his current terms due to run until June 2026, but there have been claims that Barcelona's well-documented financial issues could lead to a big sale being made later this year.
Matt Law
