Manchester United looking to 'scupper' Barcelona's Ronald Araujo contract talks and other transfer rumours

Manchester United reportedly tabled a 'bumper proposal' for Barcelona defender Ronald Araujo.

The 23-year-old has been repeatedly linked with clubs around Europe after turning down fresh talks with Xavi's side with the needs of the player differing to the terms put forward by Barca.

Xavi is keen to tie the Uruguayan down at the Camp Nou but will face a stern test to agree to the demand stated by the La Liga outfit.

United bolstered their defence in the summer with the addition of Raphael Varane but largely during this campaign the middle of the pitch and backline have come under fire during their timid performances.

Harry Maguire was subject to criticism after his part in Burnley's equaliser on Tuesday.

Spanish outlet Fichajes has claimed that the Reds have approached the 23-year-old's representatives with a €12m (£10m) per-year contract.

They continue to report that Barcelona have 'no information' on the offer but the Reds want Araujo to reject an extension at Catalonia.

Although, it remains unlikely that United will invest heavily in the central defensive area, with the onus heavily focused on the midfield in the summer with Declan Rice among the targets.

Meanwhile, in recent days it has been reported that Andreas Pereira will complete his permanent move to Flamengo for £12m.

However, UOL via Sport Witness claim that there has been a minor setback in negotiations as the Reds have turned their attention to 'more urgent problems' in light of their defeat to Middlesbrough in the FA Cup, last week.

However, Fabrizio Romano rebuffed this on Twitter, claiming that the Brazilian had completed a €10.5m fee plus a 25 per cent sell-on clause.

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