Barca Won’t Sell 26-Year-Old Star Despite Tough Season

Barcelona are standing firm in their decision not to sell Ronald Araujo this summer. As reported by Mundo Deportivo, the club’s sporting department sees him as a key player for the future, despite a season that has not lived up to expectations.

It must be noted that Araujo’s campaign was affected by an injury he picked up with Uruguay last summer.

That setback kept him from starting the season strong, and just when he was getting back to form, interest from Juventus in the January transfer window distracted him mentally.

Still, thanks to quick work from Deco, the defender decided to stay and even signed a contract extension with the club.

Value remains high despite a tough season
Indeed, Araujo has not had his best season. But within the club, there is a feeling that Pau Cubarsi’s rise has led to unfair comparisons and added pressure on the Uruguayan.

Barça still believe that, when it comes to pure defending, Araujo is the best centre-back in the squad.

It must be remembered that during Araujo’s renewal, his agents managed to include a release clause that lowers his price to €60 million in the first half of July.

While this gives other clubs a window to approach him, Barcelona remain hopeful that Araujo won’t push for a move.

The club also knows that it cannot afford to lose a player of his profile, mostly because Inigo Martinez is already 34, and with Andreas Christensen likely to leave, there is no guarantee of depth in central defence.

Adapting to Flick is the next step
Sporting insiders agree that selling Araujo would be a huge mistake. There is genuine concern that if he joins a top European team, he could easily become one of the best defenders in the world.

Instead of letting him go, the priority should be to help him adjust to Hansi Flick’s tactical system. Those at the club are convinced that Araujo has the skillset needed to succeed under the new manager.

Simply put, Barça are not entertaining any offers for Araujo. Unless the player himself chooses to leave by activating his clause, he will remain a key part of the project moving forward.

Barcauniversal.com