Ronald Araujo's situation at Barça is starting to generate concern within the club. The Uruguayan center-back, one of the most solid players in the culé defense in recent seasons, was already tempted by Juventus in January. Araujo, who didn't feel fully valued or have a clear role in the team, seriously considered leaving.
However, Barça managed to convince him to stay and ended up renewing his contract until 2030, thus ensuring his continuity in the medium and long term. Despite this renewal and the message of trust it conveyed, the defender's situation hasn't improved in sports terms. The player remains important for the club in terms of projection and leadership, but his role in the starting eleven has been relegated since the arrival of Hansi Flick.
Pau Cubarsí and Íñigo Martínez are ahead
In this Barça under Flick, Ronald Araujo isn't an undisputed starter. The great performance of Pau Cubarsí and the solidity provided by Íñigo Martínez have pushed Araujo into the background. In this sense, this situation has also sparked the interest of several clubs, including Manchester United.
Manchester United wants him for their new project
According to "El Nacional," they are determined to go all out. The "Red Devils" see Araujo as an ideal piece to rebuild their defense for a new sports project. In fact, they would be willing to pay his release clause to secure his signing and get ahead of other potential offers.
Manchester United's condition
However, the possibility of Manchester United securing Ronald Araujo's signing will depend on a key factor, they say, and that is their qualification for the next Champions League. In the Premier League, the team is far from the positions that give direct access to the top European competition, so their chances rely on winning the Europa League. Currently, they are in the semifinals of the tournament and trust they can lift the trophy to guarantee their presence.
If they achieve it, they would not only have the financial capacity to undertake the operation, but they would also entice Araujo with a more ambitious project. The player, who wants to keep competing at the highest level, would be much more willing to accept a departure if United offers him the chance to play in the Champions League.