This winter transfer window, Araujo has become a hot topic in the transfer market. On January 11th, Marca reported that Juventus offered 35 million euros to sign Araujo, but Barcelona rejected it outright, demanding between 70 million and 80 million euros. Arsenal, an English Premier League powerhouse, has also joined the battle for Araujo.
The 25-year-old Araujo is the vice-captain of Barcelona. Due to a serious injury, he was out for four months and only returned in December last year. However, Barcelona coach Flick has already determined his starting center-back pairing: Kuba and Inigo Martinez. With Araujo unable to secure a starting spot, he is considering leaving during the winter or summer transfer windows. Barcelona is also willing to sell Araujo to avoid losing both player and money when his contract expires in 2026.
Marca revealed that just hours ago, Juventus made a 35 million euro offer for Araujo. Without hesitation, Barcelona's management firmly rejected it. Last season, Bayern Munich offered a total of 100 million euros for Araujo, but Barcelona did not agree to the deal. Despite Araujo being sidelined for nearly half a year, he is not worth "selling cheaply" at 35 million.
Barcelona's asking price for Araujo is between 70 million and 80 million euros—meaning Juventus would need to double their offer to stand a chance with Barcelona. Juventus' first offer was rejected, but the Italian giants are not giving up. Marca claims that Juventus may increase their offer to 50 million. However, Barcelona will still reject it: they are only willing to seriously negotiate if the offer approaches 70 million.
Araujo is no longer seen as a cornerstone for Barcelona's future, which gives them the confidence to ask for a high price. This is because the Uruguayan center-back is not short of suitors. Arsenal, another English Premier League powerhouse, has also joined the race for Araujo. Marca revealed that the Gunners will make an offer in the coming days.
Barcelona coach Flick responded directly to the transfer rumors surrounding Araujo: "I hope Araujo stays in my team because he is one of the best defenders. He has recovered from his injury and can play in matches. I am aware of many rumors, and Araujo is a great athlete." However, the decision on whether Araujo transfers does not lie with Flick. Barcelona needs funds to strengthen their squad (wingers, center-forwards), so they must sell players to raise money.