Manchester United face competition from Chelsea in their pursuit for a £51 million Barcelona ace, as the club look to raise funds amid their financial concerns.
Ruben Amorim’s first summer in charge of Manchester United got off to the perfect start when they secured the signature of Matheus Cunha, however, the transfers have since stalled.
After dismally finishing 15th in the Premier League last campaign, the Reds are due for a significant summer overhaul in order to bolster their squad.
It’s been clear so far that Amorim’s priority is to strengthen his attack, with a brand new front three seemingly on the horizon; however, the incomings surely won’t stop there.
It has been rumoured that United will want a new central midfielder, a new goalkeeper, and even potentially a new defender to join their ranks before the new season.
United and Chelsea in pursuit of Araujo
According to a report from Fichajes, via CaughtOffside, Barcelona are open to selling one of their star defenders, Ronald Araujo, as they look to raise funds amid financial concerns.
The Catalan giants are looking for a fee in the region of £51 million for the 26-year-old, which has left United and Chelsea both keeping tabs on his situation.
The Uruguayan is renowned for his speed, aggression and tenacity, which has seen him cover both at centre-back and right-back for club and country.
Neither English club has made a move yet for Araujo, but it will be interesting to see if they advance their interests in the coming months.
Do United need defensive reinforcement?
After a season to forget, it is clear to all that United need drastic change if they are to compete with the elites again.
Although it is attacking reinforcements that are being prioritised, a couple of defensive signings may be a necessity. The Reds conceded a disappointing 54 league goals last season.
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Despite the likes of Leny Yoro, Harry Maguire and Ayden Heaven all impressing under Amorim, injuries often left United concerningly short at the back, meaning that a couple of new faces could surely help to steady the ship.
Whether United act on their interest for Araujo or not is still up in the air as of yet, but the Barcelona vice-captain would surely be a very welcome introduction to the Red Devils.
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