Why Ronald Araujo would prioritise joining Arsenal over Juventus | OneFootball

Ronald Araujo would reportedly like to test himself in the Premier League, handing Arsenal a huge boost in their pursuit of the Juventus-linked Barcelona vice-captain.

Araujo is looking to reignite his career after a significant spell on the sidelines with a hamstring injury and, in a period in which talks over a new contract have not progressed, has been heavily linked with a move away from Barcelona.

Serie A giants Juventus are known admirers and were recently reported to have agreed terms over a loan deal with Araujo, before Arsenal were tipped to join the race for his signature.

Leading Spanish publication Mundo Deportivo claim that Araujo has not shied away from discussing his situation with those close to him in the Barcelona dressing room. The centre-back is said to have privately admitted he is considering leaving, with the expected arrival of Jonathan Tah on a free transfer from Bayer Leverkusen only likely to further limit his minutes.

In these behind-the-scenes conversations, it is alleged that Araujo has confirmed he would prioritise a move to the Premier League if he leaves Barcelona.

Araujo is said to believe that Mikel Arteta's style of football would suit him and he would be interested to hear what Arsenal have to say. It should be stressed that a move to Juventus, whose push to sign him appears to be strongest at this point, has not been ruled out.

Further boosting Arsenal's hopes of signing Araujo is Barcelona's refusal to entertain a loan move. Juventus are not thought to be able to complete a permanent transfer, whereas the Gunners may have the finances to get a deal over the line.

The Bianconeri are also looking to strengthen their forward line as a priority - Man Utd and Tottenham-linked Randal Kolo Muani is their primary target - and the Frenchman would take up a significant portion of the club's wage bill.

As for Araujo, he has 18 months remaining on his current contract and has been warned that the club will look to cash in if he does not extend soon.