Barcelona star defender feels he should earn more amid contract standoff – report | OneFootball

Ronald Araujo has had a disappointing 2024/25 season so far, primarily marred by injuries. His absence from the pitch has not only affected his personal performance but has also led to a significant shift in the power dynamics within Barcelona’s defence.

With Araujo sidelined, players like Inigo Martinez and Pau Cubarsi have stepped up, becoming the ‘big bulls’ of Barça’s backline.

Martinez has played at a spectacular level under Hansi Flick, while Cubarsi has solidified his spot as a full member of the first team.

Even in the midst of such consolidation, Barcelona, albeit off the record, have maintained that they want to renew the contract of star player Ronald Araujo.

Renewal talks face hurdles

However, a recent report from Diario AS, has offered a fresh perspective on Araujo’s contract talks with Barcelona.

Araujo feels he deserves to earn more at Barcelona (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

It appears the positions between the club and the player remain far apart, primarily due to salary disagreements.

Araujo, not currently among the top earners at Barça, believes his performances over the recent seasons justify a significant pay rise, a view not fully shared by the club’s management who are pushing for financial prudence.

This situation is further complicated by Barcelona’s negotiations with other key players like Lamine Yamal, Pedri, and Gavi.

Araujo feels overlooked, unwilling to settle for less when he sees his peers being prioritized.

With his contract expiring in June 2026, and with an eye on the Premier League and Serie A, Araujo’s future at Barcelona hangs in balance. Not to mention, the club have also been linked with a summer move for Jonathan Tah.

The coming weeks, to that end, could prove to be critical as Barcelona look to make a crucial decision in regard to the future of one of their star defenders.