United have made enquiries over 25-y/o CB stalwart who faces an uncertain future amid contract talks

A stalwart centre-back will have likely been the first target written on Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s transfer shortlist ahead of his first window as Manchester United co-owner.

As such, the Red Devils have found themselves linked to numerous names as the campaign draws to a close, one being Barcelona’s Ronald Araujo.

Scouring the market for centre-halves is vital for United after this season has inflicted one of the most debilitating injury crises we’ve seen in recent years. Currently, in the backline, all of Raphael Varane, Lisandro Martinez, Jonny Evans, Victor Lindelof, Willy Kambwala, Tyrell Malacia and Luke Shaw are sidelined, which has led to Casemiro being made to deputise alongside Harry Maguire in the past three matches.

The Catalan outfit are desperate to keep Araujo given his integral role in the team, but may become resigned to losing him should talks fail to progress over a contract extension; his current terms expire in 2026, and as it stands, an agreement has not been reached for him to stay long-term.

Losing him for free is an absolute no-go for Joan Laporta and co, so a sale may be the most suitable option to ensure Barcelona recuperate sufficient funds from his exit.

Spanish transfer expert Matteo Moretto has confirmed to Football Espana that United have ‘sounded out’ a move for the 25-year-old Uruguayan. As it stands, any potential price tag is unknown.