Thomas Tuchel wants Manchester United to sign Barcelona defender Ronald Araujo if they decide to appoint him as their next manager, as per reports.
United headed into October’s international break on a five-match winless run, leading to question marks over Erik ten Hag’s future at the club.
INEOS remain tight-lipped about their stance on his long-term future but the Red Devils continue to be linked with a number of high-profile managers. Recently, The Peoples Person relayed a report suggesting Tuchel is “the new favourite” to become United manager should Ten Hag get the boot.
Spanish outlet Fichajes also claim the ex-Chelsea and Bayern Munich manager is the “leading candidate” to replace the Dutch coach at United.
Interestingly, they go one step further, claiming the German coach has held talks with the Premier League giants and “made it clear” to them that he is interested in succeeding Ten Hag but he wants Araujo at United.
Tuchel wants the 25-year-old to become his first signing at the club, having requested the board “for a significant investment” to secure his signing in the winter transfer window if his appointment as their new manager is confirmed.
The former PSG manager has reportedly already held talks with the Uruguayan, informing the combative central defender of his desire to include him in his project in Manchester.
Tuchel is understood to be a big fan of the Barca man and even tried to sign him during his time at Bayern.
The report adds that “a multi-million euro offer” could tempt both Barcelona and the player, who is tied to the Catalan outfit until 2026.
Club president Joan Laporta would allegedly be willing to accept an offer of €80 million, owing to Araujo’s injury struggles. He is yet to feature this season, having been sidelined due to a hamstring problem.
Ten Hag’s decision to bench Lisandro Martínez and Matthijs de Ligt against Aston Villa on Sunday certainly raises concerns about United’s backline.
However, considering the Mancunian side are yet to make a final decision on their current manager’s future, it is best to take the claim regarding Tuchel’s transfer wishes with a pinch of salt.
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