Ronald Araujo remains one of the pillars of FC Barcelona's sports project. Despite interest from several European clubs and a recent approach from Saudi Arabia, the Uruguayan center-back has no intention of leaving the blaugrana club this summer. The board also isn't considering his departure, at least not for an amount lower than €80 million.
FC Barcelona has received a formal proposal from the Persian Gulf, specifically from Al Nassr. The Saudi club has explored the possibility of acquiring the Uruguayan defender, who, at 26 years old, keeps increasing his market value. Joan Laporta, aware of the club's financial situation, doesn't rule out major deals if exorbitant figures such as €80 million are offered.
The player's position is even more emphatic; Ronald Araujo has no intention of moving to Saudi Arabia. He believes his cycle at Barça isn't over, he feels important in the locker room, and he knows he can still give much more under Flick's orders. The idea of joining a lesser league isn't part of his plans for now.
Araujo receives a call
Araujo was tempted with a salary far above what he currently earns at Barça. Al Nassr's financial offer is hard to match in Europe, but even that hasn't changed the defender's mind. The center-back, who has also been approached by Premier League and Bundesliga clubs in recent months, prefers to keep competing at the elite level.
It's noteworthy that one of the emissaries trying to convince the Uruguayan was a familiar face: Joao Félix. The Portuguese forward, with whom he shared a locker room at Camp Nou, keeps a good relationship with him and reportedly tried to persuade him to join his new team. Joao, who has been one of Al Nassr's star signings this summer, wants to strengthen the Saudi club's defense with a player of stature and European experience.
Laporta, disappointed and angry
Not even the recommendations of his former teammate have had any effect; Ronald Araujo remains firm in his stance: he wants to succeed at Barça. He seeks to establish himself as one of the best center-backs in the world. His inner circle has also made it clear; they're not considering any offers from the Middle East, the player's desire is to stay in Europe and fight for major titles.
At FC Barcelona, they're completely relieved; despite the need for income, losing Araujo would be too harsh a blow for Flick's new project. That's why, except for an astronomical offer, there won't be any moves. Ronald Araujo will keep wearing the blaugrana jersey at least this season and won't leave Flick's team unless a truly high offer arrives.