Manchester United are preparing for major changes to their squad in the upcoming summer transfer window, following a disappointing Premier League campaign. One of the club’s key priorities will be to strengthen a leaky defence that has conceded far too many goals this season. With both Victor Lindelöf and Jonny Evans expected to depart and Lisandro Martínez continuing to struggle with injury setbacks, United are in desperate need of a top-tier centre-back to add both quality and depth to their backline.
According to [Fichajes](https://www.fichajes.net/noticias/dinero-barcelona-espera-ingresar-ronald-araujo-20250328.html), the Red Devils have set their sights on Barcelona defender Ronald Araújo. The Uruguayan international has reportedly emerged as a serious target, with United prepared to pay around €60 million for his services. Araújo is no longer a guaranteed starter at Barça, with new manager Hansi Flick favouring the central defensive pairing of Iñigo Martínez and young sensation Pau Cubarsí. That shift in hierarchy could open the door for a potential summer exit, and United are closely monitoring the situation.
Araújo was heavily linked with a move away from Camp Nou during the winter transfer window but ultimately committed his future to Barcelona by signing a new contract that runs until 2031. However, despite the long-term deal, the Catalan club’s ongoing financial difficulties could force their hand. If a suitable offer arrives in the summer, Barcelona may be willing to cash in on the Uruguayan centre-back to ease their economic concerns.
Manchester United want Ronald Araujo (Via X)
Araújo is Barcelona’s defensive colossus—a Uruguayan rock who blends power, poise, and presence. Towering and athletic, he dominates aerial duels with ease and brushes off strikers as if they were mere nuisances. Remarkably quick for a centre-back, Araújo uses his pace to snuff out danger before it develops, while his tackling is sharp, fearless, and impeccably timed.
But he’s far more than just a physical enforcer. Composed on the ball, he distributes with the finesse of a midfielder, threading passes through tight spaces and launching attacks from deep. His exceptional positional awareness and reading of the game consistently put him one step ahead of opposing forwards. At 26, Araújo embodies a perfect balance of old-school grit and modern technical flair, a natural leader who’s steadily rising into the elite tier of world football. Given Manchester United’s desperate need for defensive solidity and leadership, Araújo would be an outstanding addition to their backline.
Ronald Araújo is undoubtedly one of the best defenders in world football right now—and the fact that he’s still in his prime only adds to his value. If Manchester United manage to secure his signature, it would be a massive boost for a team in dire need of defensive stability and leadership. From Araújo’s perspective, a move to Old Trafford makes sense as well. He would walk into the starting XI as an undisputed first-choice centre-back, something that’s no longer guaranteed at Barcelona.
All things considered, this is a move United should absolutely pursue, both the club and the player stand to benefit immensely. Hopefully, we go for it.