Barcelona Transfer News Roundup: Manchester United eyeing Ronald Araujo, Catalans want Ivorian ace, and more - October 21, 2024
Barcelona are preparing to face Bayern Munich in the Champions League on Wednesday, October 24, at home. Hansi Flick's team are 16th in the league phase table after two games, while their opponents this week are 15th.
Meanwhile, Manchester United have retained their interest in Ronald Araujo. Elsewhere, the Catalans have entered the race to sign an Ivorian striker who plays for Red Bull Salzburg.
On that note, let's look at the major Barcelona transfer stories from October 21, 2024.
Manchester United eyeing Ronald Araujo
Manchester United are planning to return for Ronald Araujo in 2025, according to Caught Offside. The Uruguayan defender is currently sidelined with a hamstring injury and isn't expected to return to action until late November.
Araujo registered 37 appearances across competitions last season and remains a part of Barcelona's plans for the future. Bayern Munich were eager to sign him in January but failed to secure a move.
The 25-year-old was linked with an exit from Camp Nou this summer before his injury. The Red Devils have been hot on his heels for a while and are now planning to return for him next summer.
Chelsea also have their eyes on Araujo, whose contract with the LaLiga giants expires in 2026. The Uruguayan is yet to agree to an extension, so the Catalans could be willing to cash in on him next year.
Barcelona want Karim Konate
Barcelona are keeping a close eye on Karim Konate, according to Fichajes. The Catalans are actively looking for a long-term replacement for Robert Lewandowski, who will turn 37 next year.
The Polish striker has been in good form this season, registering 14 goals from 12 games. However, he is not expected to carry on at the highest level for much longer and the LaLiga giants believe Konate can eventually fill his shoes.
The Ivorian forward has caught the eye with Red Bull Salzburg this season, registering five goals and one assist from nine appearances. The Austrian club are likely to let him go for €35m, which could suit Barcelona's plans. The player's ability to carry out various attacking roles will also make him a fine fit in Hansi Flick's tactics.
Catalans leading race for Jonathan Tah
Barcelona are the favorites to sign Jonathan Tah next summer, according to journalist Matteo Moretto. The LaLiga giants are looking for defensive reinforcement amid the uncertain futures of Andreas Christensen and Ronald Araujo, and Tah has popped up on their radar.
The German defender was outstanding for Bayer Leverkusen last season, registering 48 appearances across competitions. He helped the club win the Bundesliga as well as the DFB Pokal.
The 28-year-old remains indispensable in Xabi Alonso's starting XI at the moment, but his contract at the BayArena expires in 2025. The player has already announced that he will leave next summer and is now wanted at Camp Nou.
Real Madrid are also eyeing Tah, but the Catalans have taken the lead in the race thanks to their excellent relationship with the player's agent Pini Zahavi.