Chelsea is poised to make a €35 million bid for a key Barcelona star, aiming to bolster its squad following a significant injury crisis.
Barcelona faces a challenging transfer window with the impending departure of a key defensive stalwart, who is set to join Al Nassr as a free agent.
This exit already strains the Catalan club’s backline, but fresh reports suggest another defender is drawing attention from abroad.
Chelsea FC has emerged as a potential suitor, aiming to capitalize on Barcelona’s defensive reshuffle to bolster their own squad following a significant injury setback.
The player in question is Ronald Araujo, the €35 million-rated Uruguayan centre-back, according to Fichajes.
Chelsea has identified Araujo as a prime target to reinforce their defence after young star Levi Colwill suffered a serious ACL injury, sidelining him for most of the upcoming season.
The London club views Araujo’s recent inconsistency at Barcelona as an opportunity, with reports suggesting the Catalans might entertain offers around €50 million.
However, Barcelona’s stance remains firm, especially with the impending loss of another key defender, making Araujo’s departure highly unlikely this summer.
Barcelona’s sporting director, Deco, has publicly dismissed speculation about Araujo’s exit, emphasizing his importance to the team.
Araujo himself reinforced this commitment recently, stating, “I’m very happy in Barcelona.
They haven’t seen the best Ronald yet, and that’s what’s coming in the years ahead.
I’m ready for that. Mentally, I feel very confident again.” His words reflect a renewed focus following a challenging injury-hit season, signaling his intent to remain a cornerstone of Hansi Flick’s squad.
Chelsea’s financial muscle and need for a reliable centre-back make their interest understandable, but Barcelona’s defensive depth is already stretched thin.
Losing Araujo would disrupt Flick’s plans for the upcoming La Liga and Champions League campaigns.
Unless an extraordinary offer materializes, the Uruguayan is expected to stay put, anchoring Barcelona’s backline.
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