Bayern Munich manager still keen on signing 24-year-old off-firm Barcelona defender

Ronald Araujo has become one of the most talked-about defensive prospects in world football this year, with Bayern Munich in particular keen on getting hold of his services.

The German giants were closely linked with a move for Araujo during the January window, but Barcelona had no intention to negotiate a deal.

But Bayern appear to have retained interest in Araujo and are likely to try and sign the defender once again in the summer.

Thomas Tuchel remains keen on Araujo

A driving factor behind Bayern Munich’s committed approach towards Ronald Araujo is Thomas Tuchel.

The former Chelsea coach is a huge admirer of the Barcelona defender. He has identified Araujo as the ideal man to further reinforce the Bayern backline, despite recent investments in Kim Min-Jae and Eric Dier.

According to a recent report from Florian Plettenberg, Tuchel is still determined to sign Ronald Araujo this summer.

The Bayern coach is not happy at all, with the performances of some of his defensive stars, including Matthijs de Ligt. The Dutchman is even a candidate for a sale at the end of the season.

Bayern Munich’s defensive lapses were evident in their recent 3-0 defeat at the hands of Bayer Leverkusen. Signing someone like Araujo, therefore, has become a need of the hour.

What should be Barça’s play here?

As mentioned earlier, Barcelona had no intention of negotiating with Bayern for Araujo in January.

But things could change in the summer, when the Catalans may require a substantial sale in order to bring in new players.

The likes of Araujo and de Jong have become prime candidates for a sale, although it must be noted that Barcelona have appeared more protective about Araujo.

The club view the Uruguayan international as their best defender and plan to keep hold of his services in the long run.