£86m Barcelona star that Rio Ferdinand loves confirms transfer stance and makes Man Utd admission

Barcelona defender Ronald Araujo is aware of transfer interest from Manchester United but insists he is 'one hundred per cent' focused on performing for his current club.

Araujo has established himself as one of the world's best centre-backs in recent years and is among the first names on Xavi's team sheet at the Nou Camp. His form it attracting transfer interest from across Europe, with reports suggesting Barcelona have slapped a €100million (£86m) price-tag on their man.

United have been linked with Araujo in the past and Erik ten Hag has identified central defence as a key area to strengthen. But the 24-year-old insists he is not distracted by speculation surrounding his future.

"In every transfer window there are rumours of all kinds. It’s normal," Araujo said. "The only thing I can say is that I’m focused on the team and also on this club. I’m comfortable here and I always try to give everything for this shirt.

"They are always rumours that appear in all markets. There was talk in the summer about Manchester United, but I am focused on Barca. And I will always give one hundred percent."

United are looking for defensive reinforcements, albeit any major investment will likely come in the summer once Sir Jim Ratcliffe has asserted his influence on recruitment. Ten Hag is keen to lower the age profile in that area, with three of his five current options 30 or above.

Araujo has caught the eye of several European clubs including Bayern Munich and the defender is also liked by Rio Ferdinand. The former United man named him as one of two solid targets alongside Kevin Danso.

"The Uruguayan boy at Barcelona – Araujo," he told The Manchester Evening News in October. "Whether he’s gettable or not, I think he’s brilliant. He’s an unreal centre half. He has every attribute to be perfect for the Premier League. I’d probably say he’s the standout, but whether he’s gettable or not, I don’t know."