Manchester United are reportedly preparing to enter into discussions with Ronald Araujo's agent over a big-money move for the Barcelona centre-back during the upcoming transfer window.
Despite being regarded as a key player by Barcelona, it is understood that the Catalan outfit would be willing to listen to substantial offers for the Uruguay international due to their financial situation.
Mikayil Faye is expected to be promoted to the first team next season, while Pau Cubarsi has broken into the senior side this term, which is believed to have opened up a potential departure for Araujo, with Barcelona confident in the players who could potentially replace him in the side.
A recent report claimed that Cubarsi, Faye, Gavi, Pedri and Lamine Yamal are the only five players who will not be allowed to leave Camp Nou this summer under any circumstances.
Man United were linked with Araujo earlier this year, while it is understood that Bayern Munich are also huge admirers of the 25-year-old.
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Man United 'to begin discussions with Ronald Araujo's agent'
According to CaughtOffside, the 20-time English champions are now planning to enter into talks with Araujo's agent.
The report claims that Barcelona want around €100m (£85m) for the centre-back, but it remains to be seen whether Man United would be willing to meet the asking price.
Araujo has again been an important player for his Catalan club during the 2023-24 campaign, featuring on 35 occasions in all competitions, including 23 outings in Spain's top flight.
The defender arrived at Camp Nou from Boston River in 2018, and he has now represented Barcelona on 148 occasions in all competitions, scoring eight goals and registering four assists.
Araujo recently confirmed that he was in talks with Barcelona over a contract extension, but the speculation surrounding a summer move away from the La Liga champions continues to gather pace.
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Would Ronald Araujo be a good signing for Man United?
Man United are widely expected to sign two centre-backs this summer rather than one, as it does appear likely that both Raphael Varane and Jonny Evans will leave on free transfers.
The club will also allegedly listen to offers for Victor Lindelof and Harry Maguire, so it will be a summer of change in that department, with arguably only Lisandro Martinez guaranteed to still be at the club next season from the current list of centre-backs.
Araujo has developed into one of the best central defenders in world football over the last 12 months, and he could be a very smart signing for the Red Devils.
Man United are believed to be keen to add pace and power to their backline, which Araujo would provide, but much depends on price, as the 20-time English champions do not have an unlimited budget this summer.
If the valuation has been set at €100m (£85m), and it will not come down, then it will be tough for Man United to sign him, as the squad is also in need of a boost in a number of other areas.
Matt Law
