Manchester United plan double raid on Barcelona

TRANSFERS Manchester United plan double raid on Barcelona

Kiplagat Sang • 13:32 - 23.05.2023

The Red Devils are eyeing a defender and a midfielder from the La Liga champions.

Manchester United are reportedly plotting a double raid on Barcelona in the summer.

Frenkie de Jong and Ronald Araujo are understood to be United’s transfer targets as they hope to bolster the defensive and midfield departments.

After signing for the Catalan side in 2018 from Boston River, Araujo had to wait before he broke into the first team as a regular starter. He has grown and become a key player for Barcelona in the last few seasons and has also risen in stature with the Uruguay national team, thus attracting interest.

With uncertainties surrounding Harry Maguire’s future, Araujo’s links to an Old Trafford switch make more sense.

On the other hand, De Jong has been a long-time target for United, and the English heavyweights are set to make a move this summer. Since moving to Camp Nou from Ajax, he has also grown into a regular first-teamer.

The 26-year-old has made 180 appearances and scored 15 goals with 20 assists.

United see the Dutchman as an ideal partner for Casemiro, and he could bring the ball progression skill that the Red Devils are missing currently.

Both Araujo and De Jong are, however, understood to be keen to remain at Barcelona beyond this season. The Catalan giants are expected not to entertain any offers for the duo.

Erik ten Hag is expected to be handed a considerable budget to accomplish his transfer priorities. Since United are returning to the Champions League, a bolstered squad with enough depth and balance will be needed.

Apart from Champions League football, shining in the Premier League, chasing the FA Cup, and defending the Carabao Cup will be United’s top targets in the next season.