Bayern move on from Varane with audacious approach for Barcelona star

Tom Weber

Updated: 27 Nov 2023 21:04 GMT
3 min read

Bayern Munich have enquired about Ronald Araujo, according to a report.

Article continues under the video

The Bavarians are keen to strengthen their centre-back department in 2024 and they have targeted some big names, perhaps too big. It came as something of a shock when it was revealed that the perennial Bundesliga champions had begun internally discussing the feasibility of capitalising on Raphael Varane's unhappy situation at Man Utd.

The defender has lost his place in the side to Victor Lindelof and Harry Maguire, with even Jonny Evans being preferred over the injury-prone Frenchman. Varane did not even get off the bench in United's 3-0 victory over Everton and speculation over his future is ramping up.

Though he may be made available in January to help Man Utd raise funds for incomings, his hefty salary means that Bayern are unlikely to pursue a deal. The Germans have also been said to be interested in versatile Arsenal defender Takehiro Tomiyasu, but the Gunners have no intention to sell.

This has forced them to look at other options, and the Bavarians have identified a Barcelona star as their next target, but they will likely run into a familiar problem.

Bayern want Araujo

According to Sky Germany's Florian Plettenberg, the German record champions have enquired about Ronald Araujo and the Uruguayan would be keen on the move, he claims.

The Bavarians are said to be long-time admirers of the 24-year-old, having monitored him for the past two years. Thomas Tuchel has given the green light for a move, but it is unlikely that any potential pursuit will end in success.

He is a crucial cog in Barcelona's team and the Blaugrana have absolutely no intention of letting him go. On the contrary, they are intent on extending his deal which currently runs until 2026. After spending some €170 million on Harry Kane and Kim Min-jae in the summer, it is unlikely that the Bavarians will have the resources to match the Catalans' demands.