Rúben Amorim has earned Manchester United's backing after an impressive end to the season. The Portuguese coach has virtually secured the "red devils" a spot in the next edition of the UEFA Champions League. He did it after crushing Athletic Club de Bilbao with a resounding 4-1 at Old Trafford.
A result that has not only sparked excitement among fans but also accelerated the planning of the transfer market. United is determined to make a quality leap, Rúben Amorim, the former coach of Sporting de Portugal, is clear that he needs to strengthen his defense with a player of hierarchy. He needs a physically dominant player and leadership on the field, the chosen one is none other than one of FC Barcelona's pillars.
We are referring to Ronald Araujo, the Uruguayan center-back is one of the most desired in the transfer market and Manchester United has already inquired about his contractual situation. Amorim knows him well, he likes his aggressiveness, his anticipation ability, and his versatility. He can also play as a right-back in a four-man defense or as a third center-back in a three-man line.
United inquires about the Uruguayan
Ronald Araujo's entourage knows there is real interest from Old Trafford and that the Portuguese coach is fully willing to do everything possible to convince him. Amorim believes the Uruguayan would fit perfectly into his style, based on high pressure and solid defense in a mid-block. The signing won't be easy, but United has enough financial muscle to launch a significant offensive if they enter the Champions League.
Meanwhile, FC Barcelona doesn't rule out any sale if the offer is good enough. The entity presided over by Joan Laporta needs income and to reduce the wage bill to comply with Financial Fair Play, and Araujo is one of the players with the highest market value. However, as of today, Barça only considers letting him go for the full value of his release clause, an amount that could be paid during the summer window.
Clause for summer
That clause, close to 60 million euros, is a significant obstacle. But in Manchester, they consider that a center-back of his level, at just 25 years old and with experience at the highest level, fully justifies that investment. Moreover, Amorim's arrival could be key to convincing the player, who has already had doubts about his current role at Barça, especially after some important benchings this season.
Barça, for now, has not received any formal offer, but they are preparing for a hectic summer. The exit operation could include important names if the figures add up. Ronald Araujo, despite being a defensive reference, doesn't have the label of untransferable.
Amorim is clear: if United gets into the Champions League, they will go for him, at Old Trafford they already dream of seeing the Uruguayan leading the defense. Meanwhile, in Barcelona, uncertainty remains about whether this will be the defender's last season at Camp Nou. Everything will depend on the proposals that arrive and the ambition of the new English project.