Aston Villa will reportedly look to sign Barcelona star Ronald Araujo this summer and beat Manchester United to his signature. The Uruguayan defender’s future at Camp Nou is uncertain with the La Liga giants looking to cash in on several first-team stars.
SPORT reports that Villa boss Unai Emery wants to bring Araujo to Villa Park. The Premier League outfit previously informed Barca they would make an approach if UEFA Champions League football is secured for next season.
Emery guided Villa to a fourth-placed finish meaning his side will play in Europe’s elite club competition. They are expected to bolster their squad and Araujo appears to be a target.
Araujo, 25, has been a mainstay in Barcelona‘s side for several years including this season. He appeared 37 times across competitions, helping his side keep 11 clean sheets, chipping in with one goal and two assists.
Villa aren’t the only Premier League club interested as Manchester United are long-term admirers. The Red Devils have reportedly offered €80 million (£69 million) for the 16-cap Uruguay international but Barca are holding out for €100 million.
Erik ten Hag previously tried signing Araujo when he arrived at Old Trafford in 2022. His defense has been blighted with injury issues throughout the season and he won’t be able to offer the Catalans star Champions League football.
Deco stressed how vital Barcelona duo Ronald Araujo and Frenkie de Jong were amid Manchester United links
Manchester United have been linked with Araujo’s teammate Frenkie de Jong ever since Ten Hag took over in July 2022. The Dutch coach previously managed the Barcelona playmaker at Ajax where he enjoyed a meteoric rise.
De Jong’s future is also uncertain amid an injury-ridden season that could lead to Barca deciding to cash in. He’s reportedly still on Ten Hag’s radar and the United boss even wants a reunion even if he leaves this summer.
However, the Catalans director Deco expressed how important he rates Araujo and De Jong while speaking in February. The Portuguese told Spanish TV channel ESport 3:
“It would not be a good idea to sell Araujo or Frenkie. I do not want to worsen the squad. (Selling Araujo and De Jong would be) like removing an arm and a leg. It would be a mistake, and it would only make the team’s situation worse.”
De Jong appeared 30 times across competitions and managed two goals amid a season of fitness problems. He’s missed 20 games across competitions through injury and it’s becoming a concern for Barcelona.
