Ronald Araújo is one of the most highly rated centre-backs in world football, however, due to an injury he picked up prior to the season starting, he has struggled for minutes under Hansi Flick.
As well as the injury, Pau Cubarsí and Iñigo Martínez’s form has meant that it’s been almost impossible for the Uruguayan to come straight back into the team.
Due to this, rumours of Araújo departing this January transfer window have been heating up, with Juventus and Arsenal both being heavily linked.
However, Juventus have now made the first move to secure the 25-year-old’s signature, according to Mundo Deportivo.
Fernando Polo has claimed that Juventus’ first offer was bluntly rejected, along with the message that Araújo is ‘not on the market’.
The report continues to say that Barça would only consider selling the centre-back if he asks to leave and the fee they would demand is around €70miilion.
Despite all this interest in the defender, Barcelona reiterate that they see him as a key player in the squad and are counting on him to be part of the team that is challenging for the league title.
Even though Barça are playing hardball, selling the Uruguayan now might be the best time to cash in as his contract is set to expire in 2026.
If the Catalonian side can not guarantee him regular first-team football then with only one year left on his deal and a lack of minutes, his price will more than likely drop drastically in the summer.
