Barcelona locker room believes senior defender is close to leaving – ‘This time it seems serious’ | OneFootball

The discourse surrounding FC Barcelona at the moment is dominated by the speculations about Ronald Araujo and his potential transfer this month.

The 25-year-old Uruguayan international is a prime target for Juventus, who are pushing hard for his signature – with an opening offer even being rejected by the Blaugrana.

Araujo, for his part, has not given much away regarding his intentions about his future at the club. The defender has maintained that contract talks are taking place with Barcelona but as things stand, it appears that he is ‘more out than in’.

Locker room believes Araujo on his way out

Indeed, the feeling is shared by Araujo’s teammates at Barcelona, who according to ARA, believe that the senior defender and one of the club captains, is very close to a departure.

“This time it seems serious,” some within the dressing room have remarked about Araujo’s intentions.

This report comes on the back of speculations that the Uruguayan international had informed some of his teammates about thinking of an exit from Barça.

Araujo, as per the report, has been dissatisfied with renewal offers that do not align with the promises made during a period of financial crisis when he extended his contract in 2021.

Araujo on his way out of Barcelona? (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

In fact, he has received offers from other clubs that surpass both his current terms and Barcelona’s renewal proposal.

Additionally, Araujo feels his importance in the team has diminished compared to previous seasons under Xavi, with current manager Hansi Flick favouring Pau Cubarsi and Inigo Martinez.

Barcelona open to Araujo’s exit

Barcelona are keen to avoid losing Araujo without financial compensation, given that his current contract expires in 2026.

As this summer marks the last opportunity to secure a significant transfer fee, the Catalans are open to accelerating the process. There is even a chance that a deal could be struck in the current winter window.

If Araujo presents a lucrative offer, the club is prepared to negotiate, with the defender attracting interest from Juventus and Arsenal.

Furthermore, Barcelona have plans in place to secure the centre-back position for the near future. They are leading the race to sign Jonathan Tah on a free transfer and are close to triggering an automatic one-year extension for Inigo Martinez.

With his role reduced and competition for his position intensifying, Araujo’s future at Barcelona looks increasingly uncertain.