A prominent Barcelona defender is considering a January exit, with top clubs eyeing a transfer opportunity.
Hansi Flick’s squad, sitting two points behind Real Madrid in La Liga after a loss to Sevilla and a Champions League defeat to PSG, faces mounting pressure to balance the books.
The summer transfer window saw chaotic moves to register new signings like Marcus Rashford and Joan Garcia, necessitating sales and loans.
With funds tight, a significant departure could be on the horizon to stabilize finances and avoid another tumultuous summer, making this player’s potential move a focal point for the club.
The defender in question is Ronald Araujo, the Uruguayan centre-back who has struggled to secure a consistent starting role under Flick.
According to Diario Sport, Araujo rejected summer offers from Premier League giants Liverpool, Chelsea, and Tottenham, despite his €50m (£44m) release clause being active in June.
His contract, which runs until 2031, did not sway him toward England then, but Fichajes reports a renewed opportunity in January, with his price potentially dropping to €40m (£35m).
Liverpool, Chelsea, Tottenham, and PSG are circling, seeing Araujo as a prime target to bolster their defenses.
Araujo’s limited role, overshadowed by Pau Cubarsi’s emergence as Flick’s preferred centre-back and competition from Eric Garcia and Andreas Christensen, has fueled speculation.
Barcelona’s need for a major sale to navigate financial constraints could see Araujo’s departure as a solution, especially with interest from top clubs intensifying.
Liverpool and Tottenham are also eyeing Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi, but Araujo’s experience and versatility make him a standout option.
If the 28-year-old opts for a move, it could reshape Barcelona’s backline while providing crucial funds.
As January approaches, Araujo’s decision will be pivotal, with his potential exit signaling Barcelona’s ongoing efforts to balance ambition with financial prudence in a competitive transfer market.
Want to get the latest Barcelona news direct to your phone? Join our WhatsApp community by clicking here.
