Barcelona centre-back Ronald Araujo has reportedly agreed move to the Italian giant Juventus, the news of which caused a complete shock in the capital of Catalonia.
The top defender just made his first appearance this season in Barcelona‘s Copa del Rey defeated fourth division side Barbastro in January after recovering from a severe hamstring injury injury. Araujo proudly captained the club in that 4-0 win, but is yet to sign a new contract with the Spanish side.
The Uruguay international has a contract that expires in June 2026 and an extension has been discussed since summer. Barcelona’s perilous finances hold back any offer they can make, which has opened the door for such Bayern Munich monitor the situation while conversations stop.
Juventus appear to be not only favorites in the race for Araujo, but have already agreed personal terms with the player, who is open for a loan move in January according to Gazzetta dello Sport.
Shortly after the Italian publication dropped the bombshell, a Spanish paper MARCH reported that Barcelona were unaware of any talks between Araujo and Juve – let alone the advanced stage of such negotiations.
Given the high reputation that Araujo has at the club, many refused to believe these rumours. More insiders just can’t stomach a scenario where the centre-back leaves the club behind after six and a half years together.
Gazette claim that Araujo is looking for a new set-up after being plagued by injuries in recent years in Spain. Juventus boss Thiago Motta is very interested in that move considering the club’s dwindling defensive resources. Both Gleison Bremer and Juan Cabal have been ruled out for the rest of the season with ACL injuries, while veteran defender Danilo is understood to have been made available on a free transfer this winter.
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