Ronald Araujo, one of Barça's defensive pillars in recent seasons, is not going through his best moment at the club. Despite having been a bulwark in the defense and a very beloved player, his performance has dropped, which has raised alarms. The Uruguayan center-back has made specific mistakes at key moments and his physical form seems far from what led him to be considered non-transferable.
Meanwhile, his release clause is 65 million, an affordable figure for the major European clubs. This has fueled rumors about a possible departure next summer market. Various media outlets point out that if a firm offer arrives, Barça could be willing to negotiate his departure, especially considering their delicate financial situation.
Barça would consider signing
If Araujo leaves the club, the squad would be left with a short defense. Eric, Christensen, Íñigo, and Pau Cubarsí would be the only ones available.
In light of this situation, it seems evident that Barça would have to go to the market to sign another center-back. The sports management is already working on this scenario, aware that a club with aspirations like Barça can't afford such a short defense.
The player Barça would go for
In this regard, the portal "e-Notícies" has reported that Barça already has its main target chosen: Alessandro Bastoni, Inter Milan's center-back.
The Italian center-back, only 25 years old, has been one of the key pieces of the neroazzurro team in their recent successes and would fit perfectly in the profile Deco is looking for. Additionally, his experience in the Champions League and the Italian national team makes him a safe bet.
He is one of Real Madrid's targets
The possible arrival of Alessandro Bastoni at Barça could have a collateral effect that would not go unnoticed by the eternal rival. Real Madrid has also shown interest in the Italian defender. For months, several reports have pointed out that Bastoni was one of the alternatives the white team was considering to strengthen their defense.
Real Madrid is thinking about a generational replacement and the physical uncertainty of Militao, and for that reason, they want a center-back before the Club World Cup. It seems they have Dean Huijsen lined up for his release clause of 50 million euros, but without it being closed, anything can happen.
If Barça gets ahead and manages to close the signing of Bastoni, it would not only cover Araujo's possible departure with guarantees but also frustrate a Real Madrid operation.