Barcelona in two minds regarding €100 million-rated defender’s sale this summer

One of the biggest talking point from the Champions League quarter-finals second-leg week was Barcelona’s loss against PSG after their first-leg win.

Barça were dominating proceedings for a good 30 minutes and leading 1-0 before Ronald Araujo picked up a red card after pulling down Bradley Barcola just outside the box. The sending-off completely changed the outcome of the game for the Catalans after that.

The Uruguayan, who shows up usually during big games, like the first-leg against PSG, could not deliver during the second-leg, which has given rise to a lot of debates regarding his continuity at the club.

Araujo’s future clouded

Barcelona have been reportedly looking to renew Araujo’s contract, and offer him a bigger deal with better wages, especially with the interest of Bayern Munich looming large.

The Bavarians have been interested in signing Araujo from Barcelona for a while, now, and are reportedly ready to offer up to €100 million for his services.

And according to SPORT, Barcelona are in debate about the Uruguayan’s sale. President Joan Laporta is very reluctant to let go of him this summer, while there are officials on the board who are ready to green light the sale if an offer worth over €80 million arrives.

PARIS, FRANCE – APRIL 10: Ronald Araujo of FC Barcelona celebrates victory following the UEFA Champions League quarter-final first leg match between Paris Saint-Germain and FC Barcelona at Parc des Princes on April 10, 2024 in Paris, France. (Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images)

Araujo’s contract lasts him until 2026, but his salary is very low compared to the other important players in the team. Barcelona had promised him a raise on his new extension, and talks to renew his deal are already underway.

Premier League teams are also interested in Araujo apart from Bayern, and might table interesting offers in the summer.

Which other players are heading out?

Reports have suggested that Barcelona are willing to listen to offers for Andreas Christensen and Jules Kounde, and one of the two players could be on their way out this summer.

Frenkie de Jong was linked with an exit for a while, but the Dutchman seems to be staying put in the Catalan capital for next season, at least.

Meanwhile, players on loan, like Clement Lenglet, Sergino Dest, and Eric Garcia, among others, are most definitely on their way out, with their current hosts ready to retain their services.