Barcelona president names the player he wants to offer lifetime contract

Barcelona president Joan Laporta said he would ideally renew Ronald Araujo's contract for life at the recent premiere of a documentary about the Uruguayan's life and career.

The defender has attracted transfer interest from European giants in recent years, most notably from German giants Bayern Munich, though 90min understands he currently has no plans to leave Catalonia in the near future.

Manchester United have also been tracking the 25-year-old, who made his first-team debut in the 2019/20 season and is closing in on 150 appearances in all competitions for the La Liga outfit.

Speaking as his club launched their new Barça One streaming service alongside a documentary titled 'Origins: Ronald Araujo', Laporta insisted he wants to keep Araujo for as long as possible.

He said: "I would renew him for life. He's a wonderful person. He is one of the best centre-backs at the club. I want to highlight his commitment to the club. Barcelona are proud that a player like you, who defends the colours of Barcelona in this way."

Sporting director Deco also recently dismissed any chance of either Araujo or midfield playmaker Frenkie de Jong leaving in the summer.

"Nothing will happen," he said.

"They have a contract and we want to keep the best. And they are the best. They are footballers of the present and the future. They are players who have earned the right to be at Barca and they have earned the respect of the fans and the club. We want to continue counting on them."

Barca's well-known financial issues mean a large transfer offer for a player like Araujo could change the stance of their high-ranking officials in the coming months, though other first-team figures are reportedly being targeted for summer exits.

Jules Kounde and Raphinha are in danger of being sold, while injury-plagued midfielder Pedri is another star who could be moved on if a big offer arrives.

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