Manchester United want to sign ‘next Virgil van Dijk’

WOLVERHAMPTON, ENGLAND - DECEMBER 04: Virgil van Dijk of Liverpool during the Premier League match between Wolverhampton Wanderers and Liverpool at Molineux on December 4, 2021 in Wolverhampton, England. (Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt - AMA/Getty Images)
WOLVERHAMPTON, ENGLAND - DECEMBER 04: Virgil van Dijk of Liverpool during the Premier League match between Wolverhampton Wanderers and Liverpool at Molineux on December 4, 2021 in Wolverhampton, England. (Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt - AMA/Getty Images)

Manchester United pulled off a major coup this summer when they signed Raphael Varane from Real Madrid. One of the most decorated defenders of all-time, the French World Cup winner was expected to come in and solve the Red Devils’ issues at the back but it is safe to say that it has not happened, as he has struggled with injuries and has not been able to find his best form as a result.

On the other hand, Harry Maguire has struggled as well and questions have been raised about the Manchester United captain once again.

Thus, it might not come as a huge surprise if they try to sign another centre-back in the near future. And one player that they appear to have an eye on is Barcelona’s Ronald Araujo.

As reported by El Nacional, Ralf Rangnick believes his qualities fit perfectly in the Premier League and he would have an impact similar to that of Virgil van Dijk at Liverpool or Ruben Dias at Manchester City.

Manchester United are linked with a move for the Barcelona star

While Barcelona have struggled this season, currently sitting at 7th in the La Liga table and are already out of the Champions League, Araujo is someone who has managed to make an impression when he has played.

He is believed to be a player that Barcelona will want to keep at Camp Nou for a long time but his current deal with the club runs till the summer of 2023. Thus, if they cannot agree an extension with Araujo soon, there might be a chance of him leaving next summer.

Both Van Dijk and Dias have been incredible for their respective clubs in the Premier League. And if Manchester United are able to sign Araujo, and if the Uruguayan has a similar impact, he would prove to be one of the best signings that the club have made in years.