Ronald Araujo is once again a protagonist in the offices of FC Barcelona, the Uruguayan center-back, one of the most important pieces of the blaugrana squad. Now he is on the radar of several European giants, Paris Saint Germain, Bayern Munich, Chelsea, and Manchester United have already shown firm interest. Joan Laporta has made his stance clear: there will be no discount for one of the jewels of the Barça defense.
The president of FC Barcelona has rejected a proposal of 40 million euros fixed plus 10 in variables, which was brought forward by the player's own entourage. According to sources close to the club, Laporta has replied with a firm demand: 65 million euros in a single payment. No installments, no future bonuses, whoever wants Araujo will have to pay that amount upfront.
The decision responds to several factors, on one hand, the blaugrana club is still conditioned by Financial Fair Play and needs quite immediate liquidity if they want to make additions. On the other hand, there is no urgency to sell the defender, as he has a current contract and his value remains very high in the market. However, the player is starting to consider a change of scenery if he is not guaranteed a more prominent role.
Araujo Considers an Exit
Ronald Araujo is not comfortable with his current situation, although he loves the city of Barcelona and has always shown his commitment to the club, he doesn't accept being a substitute. The arrival of Hansi Flick, although it represents a new stage, has not changed his perception of reality: he wants minutes, continuity, and to feel important. If that doesn't happen, he will seek an exit next summer market.
Meanwhile, Deco and the sports management are already working on different scenarios, one of which includes the return of Clément Lenglet, who could come back to fill the gap Araujo would leave. The operation would be beneficial in economic terms, as the French center-back would not require a large investment and already knows the club. This option would allow avoiding going to the market for a new center-back.
Flick Wants Tah
Flick, meanwhile, has already hinted at his preference for a specific signing. The German coach wants Jonathan Tah, Bayer Leverkusen's center-back, as the ideal replacement in case Araujo leaves. However, his incorporation will only be activated if the Uruguayan's departure is confirmed, so Tah's future directly depends on the outcome of this saga.
With several big clubs on the continent interested, Araujo's future seems to be far from Camp Nou. The player has already received calls from the mentioned clubs, and his agent is testing the waters. But Laporta, firm in his position, will only open the door if someone pays the 65 million he demands.
The summer promises to be busy at Can Barça, and Araujo could be one of the first significant departures. Although there is still room to negotiate, the standoff between the player's entourage and the Barça board has already begun. Everything points to it not being easy to find a middle ground.