Barça's sports management is preparing for a transfer market that will set the club's course in the Hansi Flick era. With an economic situation still delicate and the need to strengthen certain positions, Joan Laporta knows he will have to manage all possible departures before making certain additions. Players like Ansu Fati or Héctor Fort do not fully fit into the German coach's plans and could leave the club in the coming weeks.
However, not only are departures of secondary players being considered. Some decisions could involve footballers of higher hierarchy, such as Ronald Araújo. The Uruguayan center-back, one of the captains of the culé team, has lost prominence in the starting eleven and his continuity is no longer as secure as it seemed a few months ago.
The market awaits a signal
One of the teams most interested in the defender is Manchester United, which is closely monitoring his situation. The English team, which has already approached him in the past, would be willing to go for his signing as long as one condition is met: qualifying for the next edition of the Champions League. Currently, the "Red Devils" are playing for that option in the Europa League final against Tottenham after a very discreet campaign in the Premier League.
United's interest is partly due to a clause in Araújo's contract: during the first ten days of the market, his release price is 65 million. An accessible figure for a Premier club, but it will only be considered if they manage to be in the top continental competition. Joan Laporta is already aware of this intention and would not look unfavorably on the operation if it helps to clean up the accounts.
A different role
Despite having recently renewed his contract with Barça, Araújo has gone from being untouchable with Xavi to having a more secondary role with Hansi Flick. The German coach doesn't consider him an undisputed starter, and his latest performances in key matches have raised doubts in the sports management. The defender has not managed to keep the solidity that characterized him in previous seasons.
While his commitment to the club is undeniable, Araújo could be tempted by a new challenge if he doesn't regain his place in the team. From the player's environment, they keep calm, but they also understand that his situation has changed. The Europa League final presents itself as a decisive match for Manchester United and for Ronald Araújo's future.