Ronald Araujo still determined to leave Barcelona despite Inigo Martinez injury

Ronald Araujo’s future at Barcelona hangs in the balance. The Uruguayan international has emerged as a top target for Juventus in the ongoing January transfer window.

Barça, for their part, are intent on keeping hold of their second captain and have been trying to renew his contract which expires in 2026.

While their efforts had proven futile thus far, there was hope that the situation with the 25-year-old would change after the recent injury to Inigo Martinez, who is out for a month at least.

Araujo not swayed

However, according to journalist Alex Pintanel, even after Martinez’s injury, Araujo has communicated to the Barcelona management his determination to leave during the winter transfer window.

The Uruguayan international has received public backing from club president Joan Laporta and manager Hansi Flick. His teammates also have been trying to convince him to continue, as was seen after the Spanish Super Cup final.

Despite this, Araujo remains firm in his decision to depart, with Juventus emerging as the most likely destination.

Negotiations are expected to be challenging, as Barça have no intention of letting him go cheaply. The Italian giants plan to offer around €50 million, but Barça may demand a higher fee.

Even as discussions between Araujo and Deco continue, the defender’s future increasingly points away from Barcelona.

Where does this leave Barcelona?

Martinez’s injury-enforced absence, potentially spanning eight games, combined with Araujo’s possible exit, leaves Barcelona light on defensive options.

The Blaugrana will welcome Andreas Christensen back from injury later this week while it could also mean more minutes for Eric Garcia, whose exit will likely be blocked, in the coming matches.

Young Sergi Dominguez will also be an option for Flick, while he can also turn to Jules Kounde, who has been playing exclusively at right-back this season.