Barcelona will probably approach the contract talks for Ronald Araujo with a new ambition
A long-term injury could not have come at a more inopportune time Barcelona when it comes to Ronald Araujo. The 24-year-old Uruguayan will undergo surgery for a thigh muscle problem.
Araujo will be ruled out for a minimum of four months and is unlikely to throw a fastball until December this coming season. The Blaugrana were open to swooping in for Araujo this summer, but now after the injury, it is an option that is no longer on the table for them.
Barca are confident they can secure a deal for Mikel Merino for around €20m as his contract expires next year. Hansi Flick has already approved the signing. @alexpintanel
— Barcacentre (@barcacentre) July 16, 2024
According to Matteo Moretto, Despite his desire to part with Araujo, and links with Bayern Munich and Manchester United earlier in the year, there were no offers or concrete interest in him. With a move off the table, he says it is now up to Barcelona and Araujo to work things out, despite a new contract not being imminent. His information is that Barcelona will now try to renew his deal.
The fact of the matter is that it could be more expensive for Barcelona even if they live up to their contract demands. After two years of his deal, if they can't renew Araujo before next summer, they will likely face a scenario where he either leaves for a reduced fee or leaves in free agency in 2026. If they renew his deal, they could then . sell it at a price closer to its market value or hold onto it.
