Man United 'step up' pursuit of £59m-rated defender as Branthwaite deal stalls

Manchester United have reportedly stepped up their attempts to sign Barcelona centre-back Ronald Araujo during this summer's transfer window.

The Red Devils are in the market for a replacement for Raphael Varane, with the ex-France international's contract at Camp Nou due to officially expire at the end of the month.

Jonny Evans is yet to agree a new deal, while Victor Lindelof is being heavily linked with an exit, so it is possible that two new central defenders could move to Old Trafford this summer.

Everton's Jarrad Branthwaite continues to be linked with a move to Old Trafford, while the club are still said to be keen on bringing in Jean-Clair Todibo from Nice despite the complex nature of the deal.

Araujo has also been linked with a switch to Man United amid the uncertainty surrounding his future at Barcelona, with the Uruguay international yet to come to an agreement over a new contract.

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Man United 'want to bring Araujo to Old Trafford'

The 25-year-old will soon enter the final two years of his deal, and it is believed that Barcelona are finding it difficult to convince him to sign a fresh contract.

Araujo, who is valued at £59m by transfermarkt, was again a vital player for his Catalan club last season, making 38 appearances in all competitions, while he is currently representing Uruguay at the Copa America.

According to Sport, senior figures at Barcelona have made Araujo's future a priority, with the club 'wanting a resolution on his renewal'.

However, the report claims that Man United have now stepped up their interest in the South American, with the English club prepared to double his current salary at Camp Nou.

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Man United 'offer Araujo a lucrative contract'

Barcelona are allegedly now facing the possibility of selling Araujo this summer if it becomes clear that the defender will not be signing a new contract with Hansi Flick's side.

Man United are reportedly currently waiting to see what happens before making an official bid, with Araujo needing to make it clear that he would be open to a move to Old Trafford.

If Araujo signals a desire to join the 20-time English champions, it is understood that the club would be willing to go 'all out' in a bid to secure his signature.

The South American made the move to Barcelona from Boston River in 2018, and he has represented Barcelona on 150 occasions, scoring eight goals and registering five assists in the process.

As well as at least one centre-back, Man United are expected to sign a central midfielder and centre-forward before this summer's transfer window closes for business.