By Jamie Spencer
Barcelona defender Ronald Araujo is rumoured to be weighing up what is described as a "final offer" over a new contract that looks set to determine the next stage of his career.
Araujo's current deal runs until 2026 and speculation about his future has been rife in recent months amid links to the likes of Bayern Munich and Manchester United in particular.
SPORT writes that Barcelona want the Uruguayan centre-back, promoted into the squad's captains group this season, to continue by signing fresh terms. He too is said to prefer committing to a new contract but is yet to give an answer and other options seemingly remain open.
The proposed four-year contract at Camp Nou until 2028 is reported to include a salary increase, although it would not place Araujo among the squad's highest earners, despite his senior status. Presenting an offer that would is considered "impossible" because of the salary limits that exist and there is "very little room to improve" the numbers currently on the table.
The final decision will be the player's, but Barcelona stand to benefit if he opts not to extend because of the money that a summer sale could bring in to boost the budget. Bayern Munich are still reported to be interest and Manchester have apparently informed the player's camp that they will put forward a formal offer should there be a willingness to leave Barcelona. Chelsea would also be interested but don't seem to be in the Araujo's thoughts from a sporting perspective.
Bayern could even end up in a favourable position because of Barcelona's ongoing interest in Joshua Kimmich and the possibility of Araujo being included in any negotiations that may start.
If Araujo doesn't sign a contract and enters the final two years of his current deal, Barcelona risk losing out financially were they to not try and cash in before his market value begins to fall. One way or the other, things should be decided by the end of May.
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This article was originally published on 90min.com as Ronald Araujo weighs up 'final Barcelona contract offer' amid Bayern Munich & Man Utd interest.
