Man Utd 'ask' Barcelona for €50 million player in return as they prepare to send Marcus Rashford to the club this January

Manchester United have reportedly set their eyes on a Barcelona star amid the Spanish giants' interest in Marcus Rashford.

Last month, Rashford's future at Old Trafford was plunged into darkness after his revealing interview with respected journalist Henry Winter.

When asked if he was going to stay or leave United, the Englishman replied: "For me, personally, I think I'm ready for a new challenge and the next steps."

Since then, Rashford has been linked with clubs in the Saudi Pro League, the MLS and around Europe.

Recently, it was claimed that Barcelona have shown interest in the 27-year-old.

It has been suggested that the Catalans are ready to make their move for Rashford as the January transfer window hots up.

In return, it has been said that United have registered their interest in Barcelona defender Ronald Araujo.

As reported by Spanish news outlet SPORT, Araujo has a price tag which ranges between €45 million - €50 million and has been heavily linked with a move to Italian Serie A side Juventus.

Given Barcelona's apparent interest in Rashford, the two clubs could look to strike a deal involving both the United forward and Araujo.

Speaking about Araujo recently, Barcelona boss Hansi Flick said: "I want him in my team because he is one of the best defenders there is.

"He’s back and available to play. I know there are a lot of rumours but Ronald is a great professional."

Ronald Araujo has attracted interest from Manchester United. Image: Getty

Delivering an update on the Rashford transfer saga, Fabrizio Romano wrote on social media: "Same as Como, no negotiations or talks ongoing between AS Monaco and Marcus Rashford despite links.

"Barcelona, AC Milan, Juventus and Borussia Dortmund all had meetings with Rashford’s camp this week. More to follow next week."

Speaking earlier in the month about Rashford, United boss Ruben Amorim said: "It’s the same situation. At the moment he is ill. He is not training.

"We will see in the future, but this is like a normal player, then I make a selection. So it’s the same."

He added: "I think he is going to be out, this week he is out. We will see, but I think this week he is out."