The final stretch of the season hasn't been the best for Ronald Araujo. The Uruguayan center-back, who for a long time was considered one of the pillars of Barça's defense, has ended the season with poor performances. Particularly painful was his performance in the Champions League semifinals against Inter Milan, where he appeared inaccurate, slow in individual duels, and overwhelmed.
Errors at key moments have tarnished his season and raised questions about his future at the club. In matches where hierarchy and solidity were demanded, the Uruguayan hasn't replied as expected.
They could part ways
In this regard, rumors have grown about a possible departure of Ronald Araujo in the next market. According to various sources, both the player and the club are considering the possibility of parting ways. The center-back has a €65 million clause, a figure that several clubs would be willing to pay if the footballer takes the definitive step.
Moreover, Flick seems to have his defense clear with Iñigo Martínez and Pau Cubarsí, who have been chosen to occupy the defense. Araujo has gone from being indisputable to not featuring in the starting eleven, a detail that could ultimately push him to seek an exit that restores his minutes and confidence.
Araujo's non-sale lets a desire slip away
The possibility of Araujo leaving the club is not new. In the past winter market, the center-back was very close to packing his bags. Barça had interest from Juventus, but ultimately opted to renew his contract.
That decision, seen in hindsight, could have been a mistake. The fact of not having sold him in January has conditioned other operations. With Araujo still on the roster and his high salary within the salary cap, the club hasn't been able to pursue signings they wanted.
The player signs for Real Madrid
One of those signings the club had on the radar was Dean Huijsen, a center-back from Bournemouth. The Dutch player was seen as a future player to form a defense with Pau. However, the delay in freeing up space and the high cost of the operation have allowed other clubs to get ahead.
Real Madrid is about to finalize his signing, willing to pay the €59 million that appear in his release clause. At Barça, they already consider his arrival very difficult. An operation that could have been carried out months ago and that now, due to lack of room for maneuver, will become a missed opportunity.