Barcelona coach Hansi Flick has highlighted his desire to keep centre-back Ronald Araujo in the middle of the squad transfer rumors calling the Uruguayan “one of the best defenders” in world football.
Araujo has missed most of Flick’s reign so far after picking up a long-term injury during last summer’s Copa America, only making his first appearance for the German manager in the Cup win of the King against Barbastro at the beginning of the new year.
With Araujo’s contract expiring in 2026 and uncertainty growing over his future, Juventus and Arsenal have been heavily linked with the 25-year-old during the current January transfer window.
Talks on a new agreement with Barcelona have stalledleaving the door ajar for potential suitors. Juventus and Arsenal are the clubs most interested in Araujo at the moment, but there are likely to be others chasing the talented defender.
Asked about Araujo’s future amid growing fears of an exit, Flick revealed his admiration for Barcelona defender and expressed his desire to keep it in Catalonia.
“When I started as a coach I saw that there were a lot of rumours,” the German coach acknowledged. “Ronald came back from a terrible injury and is now fit to play. He is a good choice and he is very professional.
“I think we took good care of him. It’s not my job to talk about rumors, but I want him on my team. He’s one of the best defensemen.”
According to Spanish publication Sports WorldBarcelona are not interested in selling Araujo this month, but could be tempted by an offer that meets his €70m (£59m) valuation. In fact, they have already rejected Juventus’ initial bid for the centre-half.
The same publication also revealed that Arsenal would have an advantage over their Italian rivals should Araujo decide to leave Barcelona. with the player preferring the move to the Premier League.
