With every passing day, it looks like Erik ten Hag is a dead man walking at Manchester United. The Red Devils are languishing 14th in the Premier League table and have only managed three wins across all competitions so far this season.
The Dutch coach’s future is in doubt and understandably so, and with the international break underway, it gives Manchester United the perfect opportunity to replace their manager in the coming days, should they decide to do so.
As per Fichajes, Thomas Tuchel, the ex-Chelsea and Bayern Munich boss is the favorite to take over from Ten Hag at Old Trafford. However, the German boss has reportedly made one key demand from the Manchester United hierarchy.
Tuchel wants Manchester United to sign Barcelona defender Ronald Araujo. The Uruguayan center-back is currently recovering from a long-term injury he suffered while playing in the Copa America for his country and Tuchel wants him at Old Trafford.
This transfer talk comes amidst a time when Barcelona are trying to convince the €70m-rated defender to commit to his future at the club by signing a new contract with plans in place to begin negotiations in January 2025.
One of Barcelona’s five captains, Araujo is considered a huge part of the future at the Catalan club. He is the ideal defender for Hansi Flick’s high-line system. However, with his contract set to expire in 2026, it remains to be seen what the future holds for him.
The 25-year-old would be an incredible acquisition for any club that wishes to sign him. Manchester United could benefit from a leader like Araujo in defense and a partnership of him and Lisandro Martinez could be the stuff of dreams.
However, as far as possible, Barcelona will be keen to retain the services of their captain and try and make him sign a new contract soon. Let’s wait and see if Manchester United make an attempt to sign him if Tuchel is appointed the new manager.