Sources: Manchester United ready to offer €80 million for Barcelona captain | OneFootball

Manchester United are prepared to make a bold statement in the upcoming summer transfer window, with a massive €80 million offer for Barcelona defender Ronald Araujo, according to a report from Fichajes.

The English giants have reportedly identified the Uruguayan centre-back as the cornerstone of their defensive rebuild, and are determined to lure him away from Camp Nou with a bid that could shake the club’s hierarchy.

United’s interest in Araujo is not new, but this time, the financial commitment attached to their pursuit is far more aggressive and serious.

After a season riddled with defensive instability, the Red Devils see Araujo as the ideal leader to stabilise their backline.

Strong in duels, dominant in the air, and fiercely committed, Araujo’s profile fits perfectly into what United are looking for in a long-term solution at the heart of their defence.

What is Barcelona’s stance?

It must be noted that Barcelona managed to fend off interest in Araujo during the January window, but their financial difficulties continue to cast doubt over their ability to hold onto key players.

Manchester United want to sign Ronald Araujo. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images)

With the club still under pressure to balance the books, a substantial offer such as United’s could force them to make a painful decision.

The potential sale of a high-value asset like Araujo could help relieve some of the club’s salary burden and allow for reinvestment in other areas.

It is not just United keeping tabs on the Uruguayan, though. Bayern Munich are also interested, albeit with a significantly lower offer in mind. That could leave the German side trailing in the race if Barcelona opt to prioritise financial gain.

But Araujo’s own preferences, along with the sporting project laid out before him, will likely be decisive in determining his future.

Where to for Araujo?

The Uruguayan is entering his prime years, and losing him would be a major blow for Barcelona. However, considering their interest in Jonathan Tah, they might be prepared to lose Araujo if the German is acquired.

The defender is not only a tactical anchor in Barça’s backline but also a vocal leader and a player whose intensity sets the tone for the team’s defensive efforts.

Flick is understood to be a firm admirer of the Uruguayan’s qualities, and his departure could force a rethink in defensive planning for the new campaign.