Thomas Tuchel has reportedly communicated to Manchester United that if he is chosen to replace Erik ten Hag as manager, his top priority would be securing the signing of Barcelona’s defender Ronald Araujo.
This development comes as Manchester United endures one of its worst starts to a Premier League season, currently sitting in 14th place on the table, placing significant pressure on Ten Hag’s position. Tuchel, who became available earlier this year after parting ways with Bayern Munich, has emerged as a leading candidate to take over the managerial reins at Old Trafford.
According to reports from Fichajes, Tuchel has already provided United’s leadership with a list of potential transfer targets, and Araujo is reportedly at the top of that list.
Manchester United has previously shown interest in the Uruguayan defender, and a move for him could materialize as early as the January transfer window. Araujo is expected to recover from a hamstring injury by late November, potentially making him available for transfer talks at that time.
During his tenure at Bayern Munich, Tuchel had also expressed interest in bringing Araujo to Germany. However, Barcelona blocked any potential transfer at that time, unwilling to part with one of their key defensive assets.
Araujo remains under contract with Barcelona until 2026, but difficulties in extending his deal have led to increased speculation about his future with the club. His current contract situation could provide an opening for Manchester United to make a move.
Araujo, who is valued at approximately £58.6 million, is regarded as an ideal solution to Manchester United’s ongoing defensive issues. The 25-year-old is known for his speed, physicality, and aerial prowess, making him a commanding presence in defense.
These qualities have made him one of the most sought-after defenders in Europe, and Tuchel is said to view him as the perfect candidate to strengthen United’s backline, which has struggled with consistency this season.
United’s defensive problems have been a significant factor in their poor start to the season, with the team conceding numerous goals and failing to maintain stability at the back.
Despite previous defensive signings, such as Raphael Varane and Lisandro Martinez, injuries and inconsistent performances have left the team vulnerable. Araujo’s arrival would bring much-needed reinforcement and offer a long-term solution to United’s defensive woes.
However, Tuchel’s potential appointment as Manchester United manager is contingent on the fate of Erik ten Hag, who is currently under immense pressure to deliver positive results.
United’s upcoming match against Brentford after the international break is seen as a critical test for Ten Hag. Should the team fail to secure a win, it could lead to his dismissal, paving the way for Tuchel to take over as manager.
If Tuchel is appointed, it is expected that he would make Araujo a central figure in his efforts to rebuild United’s defense. Tuchel has a track record of organizing strong defensive units, as seen during his successful spells with Paris Saint-Germain and Chelsea.
Bringing in a player like Araujo, who possesses the leadership and physical attributes necessary to command the backline, would be a significant step in Tuchel’s plans to solidify United’s defense.
Overall, the potential signing of Ronald Araujo would be a game-changing move for Manchester United, as the club looks to address its defensive problems and return to form.
Whether or not this transfer materializes will depend largely on the outcome of the managerial situation, but the fact that Tuchel has already identified Araujo as a key target highlights the defender’s importance in any potential overhaul at the club.
With the January transfer window approaching, the coming months will be crucial in determining both Ten Hag’s future and United’s plans for reinforcements.
