According to Fichajes, Manchester United and Chelsea could be presented with an opportunity to make a move for Ronald Araujo this summer. Barcelona are reportedly open to considering offers in excess of €60 million for the Uruguayan defender who may not have an indisputable place in Hansi Flick’s plans.
Barcelona came close to considering the sale of Ronald Araujo back in the winter window when there were struggles with finances and registration of first-team players. The Uruguayan international was seemingly close to joining Juventus if reports are to be believed but ended up signing a new deal with the Catalan side until 2031 with an astronomical release clause.
The release clause figures are considered mundane other than protecting the player’s value from the club side. However, Barcelona could be open to selling the 26-year-old versatile defender if offers in excess of €60 million arrive on their doors in the summer.
Ronald Araujo is not particularly seen as an indisputable starter in Hansi Flick’s side, although the German manager continues to appreciate his qualities in different defensive positions. The emergence of Pau Cubarsi and the performances of the experienced Inigo Martinez have rendered the Uruguayan on the bench for most of the second part of the season, which may not change heading into the new campaign.
Moreover, Barcelona’s financial issues are not particularly in the clear, as they could ponder selling a top player or two for a reasonable price in the market as they had thought about reducing his previous asking price. Hence, not many would raise an eyebrow if the 26-year-old versatile Barcelona defender ends up leaving the club despite the Uruguayan being settled and happy in the city.
Bolstering the central defensive unit may not be a priority for Manchester United, but they are always in the market for top talents as Araujo certainly falls in that category. Their interest in the defender is not very recent, but at a reasonable price, they could spring up in the race, as Ruben Amorim will find a place for the Uruguan in his backline.
Chelsea were part of the battle for Ronald Araujo recently, and whether they are still interested in the defender remains the question. The Blues do need reinforcements at the back, and they may have many names on their list. It remains to be seen whether the 26-year-old versatile Barcelona defender fits into their thinking as the defender’s wages might also be an issue considering the Blues have a strict structure when it comes to salaries.
