Barcelona open to selling key defender for offers close to €100 million

In a major update, ESPN reports that FC Barcelona would be open to selling club captain and key defender Ronald Araujo if the right offers arrive.

Araujo, 25, has grown into one of the most sought-after defenders in Europe with Bayern Munich showing serious interest in his acquisition.

Until now, Barça have always maintained that the Uruguayan international is untouchable, with sporting director Deco himself declaring that the centre-back will not be sold in the summer despite the club’s financial issues.

Barcelona will let Araujo go for the right offer

However, now, ESPN reports that Barcelona would consider letting Araujo go in the summer transfer window for the right offers.

The report further suggests that an offer worth around €100 million could tempt the Blaugrana into contemplating the sale of one of their pillars.

As mentioned earlier, Bayern Munich are interested in Araujo and even tried to sign him in January. As such, Barça expect the Bavarians to return with an offer for him in the summer.

The report also states that at least one big Premier League club is also interested in Araujo and would make a move if Barcelona would encourage bids for the defender.

Araujo happy at the club

WIll he stay or leave? (Photo by Yasser Bakhsh/Getty Images)

Only last night, Araujo addressed the matter of his future after Barcelona’s 3-1 win over Napoli, clarifying that he is very happy at the club and that his continuity would depend on the Catalans.

“My future depends on the club. Everyone knows that I am very happy here at Barça. And I’m very grateful to Xavi,” said Araujo.

The Uruguayan international’s contract with Barcelona runs until 2026 and reports suggested that the club were working on an improved contract for him.

However, now, it is being claimed that Barça are aware of the need to make some important sales in the summer and would be open to offloading Araujo if offers of €100 million or nearby were to arrive.

The report suggests that there is an internal debate within the Catalan club’s offices about offloading important assets like Araujo to raise funds.

But the reality of the economic situation as well as the fact that the Uruguayan is one of the most valuable players in the squad make him a saleable asset.