Barcelona had plans to sell €70 million-rated club captain this summer

Barcelona’s summer plans took an unexpected turn due to an injury sustained by Ronald Araujo, forcing the club to reconsider their initial intentions. 

According to journalist Victor Navarro, Barcelona originally planned to sell Araujo during the summer transfer window, but the defender’s injury led the club to revise their strategy.

Even before Araujo returned to the club following his international duties, there were already question marks surrounding his future. 

During the weeks that coincided with the Copa America, reports emerged that several clubs had shown interest in Araujo, aware that he was approaching the final two years of his contract. 

The Uruguayan defender had reportedly been uncertain about his future and had yet to respond to Barcelona’s renewal offer.

Araujo important, but not untouchable

In response to this uncertainty, Barcelona made their position clear. They emphasised that Araujo remains a key player for the team, not only as a defender but also as one of the club’s captains. 

Barcelona were open to selling Ronald Araujo this summer. (Photo by FRANCK FIFE/AFP via Getty Images)

Despite the interest from other clubs, Barcelona maintained that Hansi Flick was counting on him for the 2024/25 season.

While Barcelona publicly asserted their commitment to Araujo, they did not completely rule out the possibility of a transfer. The club made it known that they would only consider selling Araujo under specific conditions. 

The first was if the player himself expressed a desire to leave the club. Even then, Barcelona would only entertain offers that they considered to be ‘XXL’ – in other words, substantial offers that would significantly benefit the club.

In Barcelona’s view, Araujo’s value this summer was much higher. Moreover, he is protected by a release clause worth €1 billion, indicating that any potential sale would require a massive offer, likely exceeding €100 million.

Unfortunately, the defender’s injury during the South American tournament disrupted Barcelona’s transfer strategy, as by next summer, Araujo will have only one year left on his contract. 

The club have already begun the process of renewing his contract with a higher salary to avoid the risk of losing him for free when his deal runs out.

*Player valuation in title obtained from transfermarkt.com on date of publication.