Man Utd try to hijack ‘best centre back in Europe’

Carlo Garganese

• 12 Jan 2025 14:00 GMT
• 3 min read

Manchester United are trying to hijack Juventus’ move for Ronald Araujo.

That is according to Spanish publication Sport, who says that United are making a late move for the Barcelona centre back.

Juventus are in negotiations to sign Araujo on loan with an option or obligation to buy.

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The Italian giants plan to sign two defenders this month due to an injury crisis, and Araujo is their main target.

The Bianconeri’s transfer chief Cristiano Giuntoli as good as confirmed talks for Araujo on Saturday, as well as for PSG striker Randal Kolo Muani.

“Araújo and Muani are two very good players. We hope to have good news next week in terms of new signings," Giuntoli said.

But United have now entered the race themselves as they also plan to sign a centre back for new manager Ruben Amorim.

The Red Devils have conceded far too many goals this season while Amorim’s move to a back three means they need more numbers in the position.

United were heavily linked with Araujo last year and have now resurrected that interest.

Last season, the 25-year-old was the only centre back in Europe to rank in the 89th percentile or above for defensive duels won, aerial duels won and progressive runs.

This led some to claim there was no better central defender on the continent than Araujo.

READ MORE: Latest Man Utd transfer news

Araujo buyout clause

Araujo has a contract at Barcelona until 2026, with a buyout clause inserted into his deal worth a staggering €1 billion.

But Barca know they must either give Araujo a new contract or sell him in this window or the summer, otherwise they risk losing him for nothing next year.

The 25-year-old has a long history of injuries which complicates the chances of him signing a new deal at Barca.

Indeed, this season he has made just one appearance due to injury, although he is now back available to play.

Araujo has featured on 151 occasions for the first team since arriving from Boston River in 2020.

He has won one La Liga, one Copa del Rey and one Supercopa de Espana during his time at Barcelona.

He has been capped 20 times by the Uruguay national team and he travelled to the 2022 World Cup but did not play due to injury.