Barcelona are preparing to make a wholesale defensive transformation this summer, one massive name exit potentially funding an ambitious move for one of the brightest young stars in Europe.
The Catalan giants are locked in a fierce battle with Real Madrid and several Premier League sides to sign a starlet who has captured England’s affections during his maiden campaign.
The 19-year-old centre-back, who joined the Premier League in the summer, has already established himself as one of the best players in the division.
His maturity in possession, defensive understanding, and ability to read the game have seen him compared to some of the all-time greats in the sport.
Bearing an asking price of €60 million (£50m), Barcelona are fully aware they must sell to buy, and a prized first-team favourite could be the fall guy.
That man is Ronald Araujo, whose future in Camp Nou appears increasingly uncertain.
Despite signing a new long-term deal at the beginning of the year, the Uruguayan has not fully impressed manager Hansi Flick, and Barcelona are willing to sell on to fund a transfer for Bournemouth’s Dean Huijsen.
The Dutch-Spanish centre-back has been a revelation since joining the Cherries from Juventus, and his performances have attracted the interest of Europe’s elite clubs.
Barcelona sporting director Deco considers him the perfect long-term partner for Pau Cubarsí, potentially the dominant defensive partnership for years to come.
Real Madrid is leading the charge, with Liverpool, Tottenham, and Newcastle also interested.
The Magpies have even engaged in direct negotiations with Huijsen agents, but the pull of La Liga could be the deciding factor.
For Barcelona, the sale of the €65m release clause retaining Araujo would be a brave but inevitable punt.
Manchester United and Liverpool have already been interested, and a sale is possible.
But now with maximum pressure from Real Madrid and Premier League clubs circling, Barcelona’s hope of poaching the deal back could rest upon how quickly they can dispose of their prized centre-back.
One thing is certain: the tug-of-war for the signature of Huijsen will be one of the most fascinating summer storylines.
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