Barcelona defender Ronald Araujo has reportedly agreed to a new contract with the Catalans, spurning advances from Arsenal and Juventus, who have both shown strong interest in move for the Uruguayan.
Araujo spent the first six months of the season recovering from a serious hamstring injury. Shortly after his long-awaited return to the King’s Cup in early January, news emerged that the 25-year-old had “agreed” to the loan with Juventus – to the great shock of those in Barcelona.
Arsenal soon noted interest in the top defender, who has been widely reported as wanting to leave Catalonia after six-and-a-half years in Spain. Uruguayan international allegedly favored Premier League club but was the subject of a €35m (£29m) bid from Juventus.
An injury to Inigo Martinez forced Hansi Flick to bring on Araujo in the final hour of Barcelona’s Supercopa de Espana final against Real Madrid on Sunday, and after helping his side to convincing victory 5-2several of his teammates were seen telling the centre-back he “must stay” during the trophy presentation.
Araujo seems to have heeded those requests, with Fabrizio Romano reporting that the newly minted champion had “agreed in principle” to a new contract.
Branc’s existing contract was due to expire in 2026 and an extension was being discussed paused. Barcelona president Joan Laporta addressed Araujo’s uncertain future at a press conference on Tuesday, revealing: “We want every player we have in the squad to continue, they are all useful.
“Araujo has a contract and I want him to stay. But there were certain circumstances – which I won’t go into because I don’t know everything – and he is talking to the sporting director [Deco].
“We appreciate him a lot on a professional level, but above all on a personal level. There is time to find a solution that will satisfy everyone.” According to the latest reports, that solution has been located.
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