Speculation about his departure has been rampant in recent days, and it looks set to continue throughout the 2025 winter transfer window. ..Continue Reading
Arsenal and Chelsea have received a significant boost in their pursuit of Araujo, with the defender reportedly prioritizing a move to the Premier League if he decides to leave Barcelona.
Since joining from Uruguayan club Boston River for just £1.5 million in 2017, Araujo has made over 150 appearances for Barca in all competitions.
The center-back made an immediate impact upon arrival and was promoted from the reserve team the following year, establishing himself as a regular in the club’s defense.
A serious hamstring injury sidelined Araujo for the first half of this season, and he made his long-awaited return in Barca’s 4-0 victory over Barbastro in the Copa del Rey last weekend.
However, his lengthy injury layoff means he has yet to regain the trust of head coach Hansi Flick, and uncertainty over his future has been growing, with contract extension talks at a standstill.
Flick has settled on a center-back partnership of Paul Cubarsi and Inigo Martinez, making it difficult for Araujo to reclaim his spot in the starting XI.
Araujo’s current contract expires in 18 months, and Barca are prepared to listen to offers for the center-half if he continues to stall over a renewal.
The La Liga giants are reluctant to accept a loan deal this winter but are open to a permanent transfer if they receive a ‘considerable and irresistible’ offer, according to Mundo Deportivo, with Arsenal preparing a bid.
Reports suggest that Araujo has been candid with his teammates in the Barcelona dressing room, indicating that he is seriously considering a January move, with a preference for England.
It’s said that Araujo has always been curious and interested in testing himself in the Premier League, with Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal appearing well-suited to his style of play.
Chelsea are also actively searching the market for a new option to join in January, and one of those names mentioned is Araujo.
Araujo is reportedly ‘burnt out with various situations’ at Barcelona, and his admission has ‘set off alarm bells’ with club officials.
Juventus has also shown interest in Araujo in recent weeks, but the Serie A club prefers a temporary deal, which is unlikely to suit Barca.
In an interview with Cadena SER earlier this week, Araujo declined to comment on speculation about his future but confirmed that discussions about a possible extension at Barcelona are ongoing.
‘We are talking with the club about my renewal,’ he explained.
‘But I am fully focused on playing again and getting minutes under my belt.’
Asked if he was 100 per cent committed to staying on at Barcelona, replied: ‘We are talking to the club.’
