MANCHESTER UNITED are planning a “big investment” for Barcelona ace Ronald Araujo, reports suggest.
That is according to Marca, who report that United are leading the transfer race for Araujo who has attracted interest from other Premier League sides as well.
The Red Devils are seriously considering a deal for the centre-back, who is aware of their interest in him.
However, the Manchester giants are facing competition from rivals Manchester City and Chelsea, who are also keeping tabs on the Uruguay international.
In fact, City manager Pep Guardiola was pictured having dinner with the 22-year-old’s agent Edmundo Kabchi earlier this week.
The Blues are also eyeing Araujo as they are facing the prospect of losing three key defenders in the summer.
Antonio Rudiger, Andreas Christensen and Chelsea captain Cesar Azpilicueta’s contracts run out in June.
The Uruguayan recently turned down Barca’s latest offer for a contract renewal at the Nou Camp.
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The defender is keen to stay in Catalonia but wants his salary to reflect on his ability as well as performances on the pitch.
First conversations to renew Araujo’s contract began before the pandemic broke out in March 2020.
However, the Blaugrana’s financial woes prevented any real progress from being made.
Barcelona president Joan Laporta confirmed earlier this week the club has debts of €1.17billion (£977m) and recorded losses of €480million (£401m) last year.
Those financial problems contributed to a lack of progress in extending Araujo’s contract.
The versatile defender’s deal expires in 2023 and he is among a number of players Barca are looking to tie down after the January transfer window.
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