€70 million-rated Barcelona defender rules out exit amid speculations: “I am very happy here”

Ronald Araujo has grown into one of the most important players for FC Barcelona in recent years, with the Uruguayan even being appointed one of the club captains this season.

The 24-year-old’s growth and rise in prominence has not gone unnoticed as Bayern Munich have been hot on his trails since the January window.

Even though their pursuit of the Uruguayan failed last month, the Bavarian giants continue to see Araujo as a priority target for the summer.

Araujo not going anywhere

However, Barcelona fans can take a breath and relax as Araujo has confirmed that he is very happy at the club and will not be leaving in the summer.

The defender spoke to TNT Mexico’s Enzo Olivera earlier this week – after Barça’s 1-1 draw against Napoli in the UEFA Champions League – and clarified his future amidst all the speculations.

“I am very well, my family is very well, I am very well in Barcelona, I am very happy here, I have been here for almost five years and I show that every time I wear this shirt on the pitch and I will always do it, I am very happy to be here,” Araujo said.

When directly asked if the Cules should be worried about him leaving in the summer, the 24-year-old replied: “No, no, I’m very happy here at Barcelona.”

The present and the future of Barcelona

Going nowhere. (Photo by Yasser Bakhsh/Getty Images)

Earlier today, Barcelona manager Xavi Hernandez spoke at a press conference in the lead-up to tomorrow’s game against Getafe.

During the interaction, the Barça legend made it clear that Araujo, whose current market value stands at €70 million, is a key part of this Barça setup for the present and the future and that the club must keep hold of him at all costs.

“For me, there is no doubt. Araujo is the present and the future of Barça. He is already one of the captains and a leader in the dressing room. He is a fundamental player for the future of the club,” he remarked.

Araujo’s contract with Barcelona runs until the summer of 2026, but the Blaugrana intend to hand him a new long-term deal with improved wages. Initial discussions regarding the same have been held with his agents earlier this month when they met with Deco.