Reports from Spain indicate that Barcelona has informed both Manchester United and Chelsea that they are demanding more than €100 million (£84.6 million) for the transfer of Ronald Araujo.
This summer, both Chelsea and Manchester United are looking to strengthen their squads by adding a new central defender, and the Uruguayan player Ronald Araujo is among the top candidates on their lists.
The two Premier League clubs hoped to capitalize on Barcelona’s financial difficulties by acquiring players from them. Barcelona, needing to raise funds to pursue their own transfer targets such as Athletic Bilbao and Spain winger Nico Williams, must sell some of their players.
According to Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona is firm on their stance regarding Araujo’s availability and will not part with the 25-year-old player unless they receive a transfer fee exceeding €100 million (£84.6 million).
The report mentions that Chelsea, Manchester United, and Bayern Munich have all submitted offers for the defender. Both Manchester United and Bayern Munich attempted to secure Araujo’s transfer during the January window.
The club’s representative commented, “I would refresh him for life,” emphasizing Araujo’s value by stating, “He’s a great guy, and one of the best center backs at the club.”
When questioned about his future with Barcelona, Araujo responded this week, “I am 100% focused on the Copa America,” without confirming if he would remain at Barcelona next season.
In the meantime, Manchester United has shifted their focus towards signing Matthijs de Ligt from Bayern Munich.
It is understood that the 24-year-old de Ligt, who featured in only 16 Bundesliga matches last season, is interested in a move to Manchester United.
Bayern Munich is asking for €50 million (£42 million) for de Ligt, who is currently with the Netherlands national team preparing for their Euro 2024 quarterfinal match against Turkey on Saturday.
