Barcelona ace Ronald Araujo breaks silence on his future amid Manchester United transfer links

Barcelona centre-back Ronald Araujo has confirmed that he wants to extend his stay at the Spanish giants amid ongoing links connecting him with a move to Manchester United.

The Uruguayan defender, who is considered as one of the most highly-rated central-defenders in European football, has been heavily linked with a move to Old Trafford in the last few months, as well as a move to the likes of Arsenal and Chelsea. He is out-of-contract at the Camp Nou in the summer of 2023, meaning time is running out for the La Liga giants to tie him down to a new deal ahead of him being available on a free transfer.

Reports in recent months have claimed that United had stepped up their interest in the 23-year-old, including one from Spain that suggested that the Reds had offered him a contract worth £8.4million a year. However, Araujo, who joined Barcelona from Boston River back in 2018, has revealed his intentions to stay at the Camp Nou.

"I am very happy to be here," Araujo explained. "I am happy with the support of the people.

"We are working on the renewal. This week we have a meeting. I hope that it is resolved soon so that I can continue many years in this club. I want to stay here. Optimistic."

Araujo, who has scored four goals in 23 La Liga appearances this season, has racked up 73 appearances for Barcelona since making his debut in October 2019. He has become a regular first-team fixture this season, threatening to become a future star as the Spanish heavyweights look to try and navigate their way back towards the top of European football under manager Xavi.