Four reasons why key Barcelona heavyweight is considering a January departure – report | OneFootball

Ronald Araujo, a key figure for FC Barcelona, finds himself at a crossroads regarding his future.

While negotiating a contract renewal with the Catalan club, he is attracting strong interest from Juventus, who urgently need a central defender this winter.

The Italian giants actively pursuing three players this transfer window, with the Barcelona captain being a priority for bolstering their defence.

In fact, as reported just a while back, they have had an opening offer rejected by Barça, with negotiations expected to continue next week.

Amidst all the speculation, Mundo Deportivo highlights the four reasons why Araujo is considering the prospect of leaving Barcelona midway through the season.

Desire for a leading role

Araujo, contracted to Barcelona until 2026, aspires to be a central figure in a competitive team. While his dream has always been to play in the Premier League, with past interest from Manchester United and Bayern Munich, Juventus have emerged as an appealing destination.

The Italians have offered him a leadership role in their defence, including the possibility of becoming a cornerstone of their backline.

Salary disparities

In the past, clubs like Manchester United and Bayern Munich have tried to lure Araujo away from Barcelona and have presented more lucrative contract offers than the Blaugrana to tempt him.

Could Araujo leave Barcelona this month? (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images)

Despite this, Araujo chose to remain in Catalonia, even purchasing a property previously owned by Andres Iniesta, signalling his commitment to the club. However, he would still want a contract that reflects his status in the team.

Concerns about Barcelona’s stability

Barcelona’s ongoing financial struggles and fluctuating competitive form have raised concerns for Araujo.

These uncertainties, coupled with the club’s reduced capacity to sustain a world-class squad, have prompted him to re-evaluate his position.

Increased competition

Under Hansi Flick’s management, Araujo’s role in the team has diminished. The coach has favoured the centre-back pairing of Pau Cubarsi and Inigo Martinez.

Additionally, Barcelona’s interest in Jonathan Tah, a seasoned German international, could further limit Araujo’s opportunities next season.

As such, while Araujo would prefer to stay at Barcelona until the summer, allowing him more time to plan his next move, he remains open to a winter departure if the right opportunity arises.

Juventus, keen on acquiring him immediately, are expected to return with another offer to take the 25-year-old away from Barça.