Ronald Araújo is back in the spotlight of the transfer market, this time for a reason nobody had expected. His name has jumped from a list of potential signings to become the number one target for a club with defensive urgencies. Everything happened after a seemingly certain signing fell through at the last minute.
The Uruguayan defender keeps silent while inside the club they acknowledge that he is no longer untouchable. His recent performance, doubts about his contract renewal, and the economic context are pushing toward a possible departure. Although Deco insists on his continuity, nobody within the club rules out a transfer if the money is right.
Araújo's profile fits perfectly with what a coach of character is looking for, someone who wants a new leader. His physical strength, quiet leadership, and experience in Europe make him a perfect asset for three- or four-man back lines. His price, estimated between €50 and €60 million, is considered manageable by several financially powerful clubs.
Barça doesn't consider him essential: the academy pushes and the economy conditions
Unlike previous years, this time nobody has come out to publicly close the door to his departure. The club no longer sees his sale as madness, but as an opportunity to reorder priorities within the locker room. Pau Cubarsí has burst onto the scene, Íñigo Martínez has convinced, and Christensen has provided reliability since the first matchday.
All this changes the internal board and places Araújo in a delicate position. At 26 years old, he still has a market and has not renewed beyond what is on paper, while his release clause remains accessible. The club no longer wants to depend on a single name in defense, and the opportunity to strengthen other areas of the field is very tempting.
Internally, it is estimated that a sale around €55 million would allow the activation of priority offensive operations. Flick keeps insisting on the arrival of a direct winger with goal-scoring ability, and Araújo's departure would be an unexpected lever. Time is running, and in the offices nobody rules out that the move could happen.
An unexpected offensive after the door slammed shut in London
The interest in Araújo doesn't arise by chance, but as a direct reaction to a major setback in the market. A club that had reached an agreement with the Argentine Cristian "Cuti" Romero saw Tottenham block any attempt at an exit. That refusal forced a quick look toward another high-profile player in LaLiga.
That's when the Uruguayan's name appeared as the number one option to urgently reinforce the back line. Although no formal offer has been made yet, there have been internal moves to study his fit. The interest is firm, and financial analyses indicate that the operation is not as impossible as it seemed.
The coach involved is clear: he wants a center-back with character, authority, and experience in big matches. He believes Araújo can lead his defense both by profile and by competitive mentality. It is no coincidence that he has already given the green light to activate the operation if the conditions allow it.
Silence at Can Barça, moves in the shadows, and an open future for the Uruguayan
In the center-back's circle, everything is absolute secrecy, but it is known that his entourage has already received inquiries. The player will not force his exit, but he also doesn't rule out listening if the sporting project convinces him. The signals coming from his possible destination are increasingly clear.
The blaugrana club will not offer him publicly, but will also not oppose if a proposal above €50 million arrives. They know that this money can free up salary mass and open key operations in attack or midfield. In addition, internally, they are looking to build a more collective team, without depending on isolated figures.
The destination that has sounded strongest in recent hours is neither English, German, nor Italian. It is surprising because it is a direct rival, a club that knows Araújo well and has suffered against him up close. Its coach has been looking for a player like him for some time, and after Tottenham's refusal, has gone on the offensive.
Atlético de Madrid has made a move, Simeone wants Ronald Araújo as the new leader of his defense. If the Rojiblancos formalize the offer, Barça will listen. The Uruguayan, for the first time, is considering changing crests... without leaving LaLiga.