Bayern Munich keen on 24-year-old La Liga defensive colossus

Bayern Munich are planning for defensive reinforcements next summer to improve their thin back-line.

Matthijs de Ligt’s long-term injury has shed light on the lack of depth in the defence, with Thomas Tuchel counting on Kim Min-jae and Dayot Upamecano as the only reliable centre-back options.

As per German journalist Florian Plettenberg, the Bundesliga champions have identified Barcelona’s Ronald Araujo as one of the potential targets next summer.

It is also added that the Bavarians have been monitoring his progress for a long time, and the young centre-back is also interested in the prospect of joining the German giants.

The 24-year-old has established himself as a pillar in Barca’s defence since earning promotion from the youth ranks, making 124 appearances in all competitions.

He has clocked up 13 appearances across all competitions this term and also scored a sensational injury-time winner against Real Sociedad.

The 16-capped Uruguayan international also played a pivotal role in the La Liga title victory last season.

Araujo also proves to be a colossus presence in the defence as even some of the prominent attackers in the league, including Vinicius Junior, have found the Uruguayan too hot to handle.

Barca haven’t been reluctant to put their best players on the market due to their continuing financial crisis, and the best instance was Frenkie de Jong’s transfer saga in the previous transfer windows.

However, the Catalan giants are said to be unwilling to sell Araujo at any cost, who is contracted to the club until 2026.

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Moreover, in an attempt to scupper Bayern’s hopes, the Blaugrana are planning to extend his deal further with a pay rise.

In addition to Araujo, Bayern have shortlisted Manchester United centre-back Raphael Varane as a high-profile target.

Thomas Tuchel’s side continue to prioritise a move for Fulham midfielder Joao Palhinha – whose deal collapsed at the last minute in the summer – however, the Cottagers’ asking price of around €60 million reduces the chances of his signing in January.