Workout
Meditation
Contact Us
Barcelona defender Ronald Araujo is at the center of exit speculation in the current January transfer window.
The 25-year-old recently returned after spending nearly five months on the sidelines due to an injury he suffered last summer.
However, with Pau Cubarsi and Íñigo Martínez consolidating themselves as the first-choice centre-back pairing, added to the fact that contract negotiations are not progressing as expected, the Uruguayan’s future has been left in doubt.
Juventus, for example, is pushing hard to acquire Araujo’s services and even Barcelona has already rejected a proposal.
Hansi Flick on Araujo’s future
Amid growing speculation about Araujo, Barcelona coach Hansi Flick praised the captain as one of the best in his position and played down rumors about his possible exit.
Ahead of tomorrow’s Super Cup final against Real Madrid, Flick had this to say about Araujo’s situation (h/t AS):
“There have always been rumors since I have been here. We have to be professional. Ronald is coming back from a tough injury and we have to take care of him. “He’s back and he’s very professional.”
Flick confirmed his desire to keep the 25-year-old centre-back and added: “It’s not my job to talk about it, but I want it on my team. He is one of the best defenders.”
Although Flick maintains the intention of keeping Araujo, the club could see things differently, especially if a renewal agreement is not closed.
Reports claim that as things stand, the Uruguayan could be “more out than in” at Barcelona, with the feeling inside the dressing room also suggesting the 25-year-old could be on the move.
With Juventus expected to continue pushing for Araujo this month, it remains to be seen how things go for him.
