Chelsea are eyeing a bold transfer coup, targeting a Barcelona star for a cut-price deal to bolster their squad.
With injuries exposing vulnerabilities in Enzo Maresca’s backline, the Blues are eyeing a transformative signing to pair with Levi Colwill.
As Barcelona navigates financial pressures and a congested La Liga campaign, Chelsea senses an opportunity to exploit a potential bargain, though the Catalan giants’ firm stance and a hefty new contract clause present significant hurdles.
Chelsea is keen on Barcelona’s Ronald Araujo, a 26-year-old Uruguayan center-back whose contract extends to 2031, as reported by Football Insider.
Araujo, a mainstay since 2020 with over 150 appearances, has seen his starting spot under Hansi Flick diminish, with Pau Cubarsí and Eric Garcia often preferred.
Last season’s injury-hit campaign limited him to 25 La Liga games, and his inconsistent form has fueled talk of a move.
A £52m release clause, which expired in July 2025, once made him an attractive target, but Barcelona’s new €1bn (£870.1m) clause signals their intent to demand a premium, likely €70-80m.
Chelsea’s interest stems from Araujo’s aerial prowess, physicality, and ball-playing ability, ideal for Maresca’s high-line system.
The Blues, grappling with injuries to defenders like Wesley Fofana, see Araujo as a long-term anchor.
However, Flick’s reluctance to weaken his squad mid-season, with Barcelona chasing La Liga and Champions League glory, makes a January transfer unlikely.
A summer 2026 move could align with Barcelona’s need to ease financial fair play constraints, though Araujo’s happiness at Camp Nou complicates negotiations.
The Blues’ hope for a cut-price deal hinges on Barcelona’s financial woes, but the €1bn clause underscores the club’s valuation of Araujo’s leadership and versatility.
As El Clasico looms on October 26, Araujo’s performances will be scrutinized, with Chelsea monitoring closely.
For now, Maresca must explore alternatives like Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi, but Araujo remains a dream target, promising to elevate Chelsea’s defense if the stars—and finances—align.
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