Barcelona intent on renewing key defender’s contract amid growing interest, have no plans to sell

Amidst all the rumours surrounding Bayern Munich’s interest in Barcelona defender Ronald Araujo, a report from Mundo Deportivo has emerged, saying that within the club, there is no doubt that they want to renew the Uruguayan’s contract and for that, contact has already been established with the defender’s agent.

The outlet affirms that Barcelona are firm in their pursuit of renewing Araujo’s deal since it expires in the summer of 2026. 

The defender has garnered interest from Bayern Munich, who expressed a desire to sign him during the previous summer transfer window. Despite the German club’s attempt, Araujo declined the opportunity to leave Barcelona.

Even as of today, the German champions remain keen on acquiring his services in the upcoming summer market and are poised to present a substantial offer to both the player and Barcelona. 

Bayern view him as a priority signing, however, this objective directly contradicts Barcelona’s stance, as they are determined in their belief that parting ways with Araujo would not only fail to generate significant revenue but also compromise the team’s defensive strength.

So what is Barcelona’s plan?

Barça have received information that Bayern offered €12 million to Araujo and might pay a transfer fee of €80 million for him. This is why Barça want to act fast to work on his contract and they do not want to wait until 2025 when he would have only one year left on his deal.

Ronald Araujo has a contract with Barcelona until 2026. (Photo by Aitor Alcalde/Getty Images)

Meanwhile, it is to be noted that Barça did not want to consider any offers for Araujo during the winter transfer window because selling a player mid-season doesn’t give them much benefit, and the team is not ready to lose one of its best defenders with ongoing security issues in their area.

Barça believe that Araujo is their best centre-back, and while others have high salaries, they might consider selling some if necessary. 

Araujo would be the last option, only if he wants to leave, refuses to renew, and makes an unreasonable demand.

For now, Barça are not expecting this to happen because they believe Araujo is fully committed to the club and team, and he is one of the captains, currently third, and could become second if Sergi Roberto leaves, behind Marc-Andre Ter Stegen.