Barcelona sporting director states Manchester United target is “not for sale”

Barcelona’s Sporting Director Deco has told the media that Manchester United target Ronald Araujo is not for sale.

Araujo, 24, who rose through the ranks of Barcelona‘s B team, has impressed since joining up with the first team, with Manchester United and Erik ten Hag reportedly eyeing IP the centre-back.

Regarded as one of the best defenders in La Liga, Barcelona assigned Araujo the responsibility of being the club’s third captain earlier this season.

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Despite his high standing on the Catalan side, it had been reported earlier this month by Sky Sports Germany’s Florian Plettenberg that United had enquired about Araujo’s availability.

Speaking to Fabrizio Romano, Deco said the following on interest from other clubs in Araujo: “Bayern want Ronald Araujo? We are not considering selling him. He’s not for sale.

“He’s one of the key players for Barcelona’s future. We want him to be happy, and this is shown on a day-to-day basis. There’s nothing to talk about.”

Manchester United’s defensive options continue to need major reinforcements, with the club being forced to turn towards unexpected sources so far this season.

Jonny Evans, who was recently labelled as ‘excellent’ by former club captain Harry Maguire, has started more league games at centre-back this season than anyone else at the club.

Additionally, youth prospect Willy Kambwala has been included in the first team on several occasions, with Utd District understanding the club has received several offers for the 19-year-old’s services.

Reinforcements in the position seem inevitable for United, with names such as Lille’s Leny Yoro, Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite, and Erik ten Hag’s former captain at Ajax Matthijs de Ligt all on the club’s shortlist.