Joy for Man Utd as La Liga starlet offered less than half of their contract proposal by current club
Manchester United have received a major boost in their hunt for Ronald Araujo, as their contract offer is more than double Barcelona’s.
After excelling in La Liga in the past two seasons, Araujo has quickly emerged as one of the hottest young defensive properties. With his contract expiry a little over a year away, multiple Premier League clubs have taken notice.
United, who have conceded more goals than any of their top six rivals, have been particularly keen.
In fact, they have already made a move by offering the 22-year-old a salary of €10million (£8.3m).
That equates to a weekly wage of around £160k. Despite Barca being strapped for cash, they entered talks to try and convince him to stay.
It quickly emerged that they were struggling to meet Araujo’s financial demands.
And now it has ended badly for them. According to El Chiringuito, renewal negotiations have been ‘frozen’.
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That’s because the La Liga giants couldn’t even reach an offer of €4m (£3.3m) per year, or roughly £64k per week.
Such is the gap in proposals that it it incredibly hard to see Xavi getting his wish of Araujo staying at the Camp Nou.
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United would appear to therefore be in pole postition for the signature of the Uruguay international.
They would be multiplying his current contract, which earns him a weekly wage of £16k, by 10.
And it’s hard to argue Araujo doesn’t deserve it. He has started fifteen league games for Barca this season and has been Xavi’s first-choice alongside Gerard Pique when fit.
He has also scored three goals in recent months, showing he can contribute at both ends of the pitch.
More contract offers being urged
Meanwhile, Rio Ferdinand has named the two players he wants United to prioritise the signings of this summer if the club wants to challenge again for trophies.
A big summer of change is expected for United both on the playing front and in the dug-out.
Indeed, Ralf Rangnick’s time in charge only looks set to be brief, though he will stay on in an advisory capacity. That said, the German has United upwardly mobile again and in with a shout of Champions League football.
Regardless of whom ends up in charge, there will likely be a number of departures from the playing squad.
And Rio is keen on two midfield additions…
READ MORE: Rio Ferdinand identifies two dream midfield signings who can inspire Man Utd culture change
