Barcelona determined to keep Premier League target

Barcelona are determined to keep hold of Ronald Araujo amid interest from Chelsea and Manchester United.

The Uruguayan has developed into a key player for the Blaugrana, but there remains speculation over his long-term future.

He has 17 months remaining on his current deal, and Marca claims that the centre-back has already snubbed a contract proposal.

Araujo currently earns just €900,000 annually. He is eyeing a significant wage rise of upto €5 million to put pen-to-paper on a renewal.

This has led to a contract stand-off between both parties, but the Blaugrana are hopeful of finding a solution in the coming months.

Manchester United and Chelsea are keeping a close eye on the situation, but the Catalan giants are optimistic of convincing Araujo.

The 22-year-old started against Atletico Madrid earlier today. He scored the club's third goal in the 4-2 La Liga triumph at Camp Nou.

With the victory, the Blaugrana have moved into the top four for the first time since August. They are 12 points behind leaders Real Madrid.