Man United in double scouting mission as £86m-rated star 'monitored' amid Chelsea interest

Manchester United reportedly remain interested in Barcelona defender Ronald Araujo and will continue to monitor his situation ahead of the new year.

United have been linked with Araujo for the last few months, with Chelsea also credited with an interest, according to Caught Offside. The report claims clubs have been put on alert over his situation amid talks over a new contract.

With his current deal set to run out in the summer of 2026, president Joan Laporta has spoken publicly about trying to keep Araujo and other key stars. He offered an update saying: "We are working on Araujo, De Jong and Pedri’s new contracts."

READ MORE: Erik ten Hag has been given the green light to audition Manchester United player for a new role

READ MORE: Paul Pogba insists he's no cheater as contract decision looms large after Man United departure

However, it remains to be seen whether Araujo will pen a new deal with the Spanish giants, having been at the club since 2019. The player himself, previously claimed he is 'very well and calm' about his future.

"I have a contract until 2026. My representatives will meet the club," the Uruguay international said in the summer. Meanwhile, United and Chelsea are reported as being 'prepared' to pounce if there is no progress over contract talks 'in the next few months.'

In addition, Spanish news outlet Sport suggests Barca will demand at least €100million (£86m) in order to consider letting the centre-back leave the club.

Elsewhere, Tutto Mercato reports United scouts were reportedly in attendance in Italy to watch Napoli star Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and centre-back Alessandro Buongiorno against Empoli. Georgia international Kvaratskhelia scored the winner for Napoli from the penalty spot, while