Man Utd and Chelsea target Araujo addresses transfer talk and Barcelona contract

BARCELONA star Ronald Araujo has dealt a blow to Manchester United and Chelsea’s transfer hopes by saying he wants to STAY at Barcelona.

The centre-half featured for Barca on Sunday night as they beat Sevilla 1-0 to move Xavi’s side up to second in LaLiga.

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They are now just three points behind leaders and great rivals Real Madrid, with a game in hand.

Araujo has been linked with a move away from the Nou Camp, with a number of Premier League sides said to be monitoring his progress.

But speaking after the game, the 23-year-old Uruguayan poured cold water on any move to to England.

He told reporters: “I am very happy to be here and happy with the support of the club.

And on discussions over a new deal, he added: “We are working. This week we have a meeting.

“I hope it will be resolved soon so that I can continue many years at this club. I am optimistic.”

Araujo has had a breakout season for Barcelona this campaign and courted the interest of Europe’s top clubs.

And reports say the 23-year-old wants to be paid more than Barcelona are currently offering in the latest contract renewal.

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According to SPORT, Barcelona must raise their offer if they have any hope of keeping one of their best assets at the club.

ESPN reported last month that 23-year-old earns £4.2million a year at the Nou Camp, or £80,000 a week.

Barcelona have tied down Ansu Fati and Pedri to new deals recently and Araujo wants a salary to match Barca’s other youngsters. 

Manchester United are said to be very keen on Barcelona’s key man and are lining up a transfer move this summer.

And Chelsea were linked with a swoop for the defender, but their impending takeover after Roman Abramovich was sanctioned by the UK government has put any move firmly on the backburner.