Despite tentative interest from Manchester United, Ronald Araujo has no immediate plans to depart Barcelona in the upcoming months, according to information obtained by 90min.
The 24-year-old has garnered recognition as one of Europe’s top center-backs, drawing attention from scouts representing various elite clubs. While reports from Germany linked Bayern Munich to Araujo during the winter transfer window, Manchester United has also surfaced as a potential suitor.
Sources confirm to 90min that, for several reasons, a transfer for Araujo is currently unlikely. A significant factor is Araujo’s current contentment at Barcelona. He expresses a desire to remain with the team and continue working under the guidance of Xavi. Barcelona officials, recognizing his pivotal role within the team, have no intention of entertaining offers. There is even potential for an extension to his contract, which is set to run until 2026.
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Manchester United is not expected to actively pursue a center-back during the current transfer window. Their primary focus is on player departures, with consideration for a new striker only if funds can be freed up, and the right target emerges within the next two weeks. Looking ahead to the summer window, defensive reinforcements are likely to be on the agenda, but Araujo is viewed as a challenging acquisition for United. Sources close to the situation downplay the likelihood of Araujo departing from Camp Nou.
Several obstacles must be addressed before Manchester United can formulate plans for the summer transfer window. The completion of Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s share purchase is still pending, and decisions regarding the recruitment team responsible for United’s transfer business will be made once this process concludes. Additionally, on-field performance will play a role, and United will need a clearer picture of their Champions League prospects before targeting elite players like Araujo. As of now, United sits seventh in the Premier League and faces a challenging battle to qualify for the top European competition.
If a move for Araujo proves to be difficult, United is unlikely to persist, demonstrating a commitment to more decisive decision-making in their transfer strategy. The goal is to avoid prolonged pursuits of targets who lack a genuine desire to move. INEOS, the new majority shareholder, seeks a more efficient and decisive approach in transfer dealings, aiming for less protracted transfer sagas and more early business in future transfer windows.