Transfer Talk: Araujo set to reject Prem giants to extend Barca stay

Manchester United and Liverpool are likely to be disappointed in their pursuit of Ronald Araujo.

The Barcelona centre-back has lucrative offers on the table from both North West giants ahead of his contract expiring in 2023.

But ESPN report that he is closing in on signing a new deal at the Camp Nou as he continues to thrive under Xavi.

After their 1-0 victory over Sevilla at the weekend, Araujo, 23, confirmed he was eyeing a lengthy stay in Spain.

He said: "We are working on [a new deal].

"There are [more] meetings this week and I hope it's resolved soon because I want to stay at this club for many years."

After breaking into the side last season, the Uruguayan has firmly established himself in Barca’s new-look team this term.

Aside from a handful of games missed through injury, the nine-cap international has been a virtual ever-present for the Catalan giants.

With United continuing to struggle at centre-half they had pinpointed Araujo as the latest player to try and fix their issues.

Liverpool, meanwhile, are strong in that position but Jurgen Klopp is always keen to strengthen his side and with Joe Gomez potentially departing in the summer, saw the 6ft 3in defender as a step up.

But the two rivals will have to look elsewhere as Barca continue to rebuild under their former midfielder.

In other news

Reports in Spain suggest Newcastle may offer Kepa Arrizabalaga a route out of Chelsea this summer, with Brighton goalkeeper Robert Sanchez also on their list.

Goal believe Serge Gnabry is weighing up his Bayern Munich future, piquing the interest of both Liverpool and Real Madrid.

According to Fichajes, Real Sociedad’s struggle to qualify for Europe will open up the door for Arsenal to sign Alexander Isak in the summer.