Ronald Araújo is one of the most solid pillars of the current FC Barcelona squad. At 25 years old, he represents both the present and future for the club, and his recent contract renewal until 2031 sent a clear message. The Uruguayan center-back has proven to be irreplaceable due to his leadership, speed, strength, and defensive versatility.
Barça secured his continuity a few weeks ago by including a symbolic release clause for a few days. That €65 million clause expired in mid-July and is now set again at one billion (€1 billion). Even so, his name has continued to circulate among the continent's top clubs.
Both the sporting management and Hansi Flick consider Araújo untouchable within the new project. The German coach has chosen him as one of his fixed pieces, both for the center of defense and on the flank. His commitment to the badge also makes him one of the favorites in the locker room.
Leader in defense and a role model for the youngest
Araújo has played more than 50 official matches this past season, being one of the most used by the coaches. He has not only performed defensively, but he has also contributed goals and assists in key moments. His presence on the field is felt both in the game and in the team's overall attitude.
In the locker room, he is considered a silent leader, respected for his dedication and professionalism. He is the first to arrive and the last to leave, and his example especially resonates with the youngest academy players. In addition, his connection with the fans has made him one of Camp Nou's current idols.
The recently signed renewal strengthens his structural role in the medium- and long-term project. Although his salary increase has not been released, it is known that he is now among the highest valued. His contract, secured until 2031, represents a total commitment from the club.
Interest that goes back a long way and doesn't fade
For months, major European clubs have been closely following his situation at Barça. The interest has been constant, but it intensified especially when his temporary €65 million clause was active. Those ten days set off alarms in the blaugrana environment, although the club reacted quickly.
Now, with the clause once again out of reach, Barça has regained full control of the situation. However, the market is unpredictable, and some entities do not give up their targets so easily. There are teams looking to strengthen their defense with guarantees, and Araújo has it all.
Meanwhile, the center-back has no intention of moving. He is committed to the club, happy in the city, and convinced by Flick's new project. Internal conversations reinforce his desire to keep leading Barça's defense for many years.
A complicated operation that would require astronomical figures
Sources close to the club assure that no sale is being considered unless an out-of-market offer arrives. The club's idea is to establish Araújo as a reference and not open any exit door in the short term. For Barça, letting him go would be a huge setback, both in sporting and institutional terms.
If a proposal were to appear, the minimum put forward would be around €90 million. Even so, an internal debate would be necessary, since the footballer has not asked to leave. The convergence of multiple factors would be needed for the club to seriously consider any offer.
Despite this, there is a club that keeps pushing behind the scenes. It has been following Araújo for months and has even made several informal inquiries. It is a big team, with immediate demands and a coach obsessed with strengthening its defensive line.
Finally, it has been confirmed that the club willing to make a move for Ronald Araújo is Atlético de Madrid. Simeone wants to make the Uruguayan the new leader of his backline and doesn't intend to give up easily.