Bayern Munich are apparently “very interested” in signing Uruguay international Ronald Araujo but do not believe they can land the defender.

Getty ImagesWHAT HAPPENED?

According to a report by Florian Plettenberg, Thomas Tuchel, the manager of the Bavarian giants, is a huge fan of the centre-back and would love to have him play at the Allianz Arena. However, they have no optimism whatsoever about their prospects. It is clear that Barca wants to retain the defender and give him another contract extension.

• THE BIGGER PICTURESince making his first team debut, Araujo has grown to be a vital member of Barcelona’s squad and is presently thought to be among the greatest centre-backs in Europe. When fit, he is among the first names on Xavi’s roster, and he has long been predicted to eventually assume the captaincy. Araujo has also always stated that he likes to play for Barcelona, so a transfer doesn’t seem realistic, even if it’s anticipated the team will need to make one significant sale in the summer in order to ease their financial problems.WHAT ARAUJO SAIDEarlier this year, Araujo revealed that he believes he could be the captain of the Catalan club, having come up through the academy and made his name as one of the club’s leaders.

  

  “I am proud of the possibility of becoming a Barcelona captain, but it does not depend on me. We have to respect those players who have been here longer. I consider myself a natural leader, regardless of whether I wear the armband or not, and that will continue for the rest of my career. I feel important and I think that was seen last year. I have to maintain that and help the team. We have to have a better season than last year.”

  The Uruguayan is now the third captain of the club behind long-time serving players, Sergi Roberto and Marc Andre ter-Stegen.

  Getty ImagesWHAT NEXT FOR ARAUJO?

  The Uruguayan is unlikely to leave the Blaugrana this season as they look to aim tor return to the top of the league and put their Champions League woes of the past to bed.

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