Top agent believes Portuguese centre-back could be an ideal signing for Barcelona | OneFootball

Ali Barat, who ranks among football’s most popular agents these days, recently spoke to Fabrizio Romano, offering insights about some of the more recent moves in football.

Barat also spoke about one of his clients, Tomas Araujo, who is making a name for himself in SL Benfica and is being regarded as one of the most talented young centre-backs in Portugal.

Barat even admitted that someone like Araujo could be an excellent signing for a club like Barcelona, who operate with a high defensive line.

What Barat said about Tomas Araujo

“Tomás has qualities that modern coaches look for, because many teams today play with a very high defensive line, especially clubs like Barcelona,” Barat told Romano.

A centre-back by trade, Araujo has become a key presence in the Benfica defence, impressing onlookers with his athleticism and technical awareness.

After making his breakthrough, Araujo has already made 88 competitive appearances for the Eagles. He also has one cap for the Portuguese national team.

In light of his success, agent Ali Barat believes Tomas could be poised to join a big club next summer.

“I am convinced that many big clubs will be interested in Tomás again in the summer,” he said.

Tomas Araujo is flourishing at SL Benfica. (Photo by Carlos Rodrigues/Getty Images)

While it remains to be seen whether or not Barcelona join the race to sign the Portuguese international, Araujo could certainly be an interesting option for the Blaugrana.

He has the technical ability and the pace to become a real asset in Hansi Flick’s defensive line, potentially even an upgrade over Ronald Araujo.

Indeed, the Benfica star can operate as a right-back whenever required, making him an ideal replacement for Araujo, should Barcelona decide to sell him in the summer.

A recent survey has shown that Barcelona socios want Ronald Araujo and Frenkie de Jong to be sold at the end of the season, potentially paving the way for someone like Tomas.

However, it is unlikely Barcelona will make a move for the Benfica star, as their immediate priority will be to sign a replacement for Inigo Martinez, a left-footed centre-back who can operate in the left-sided central defensive role.

That is where Nico Schlotterbeck has emerged as a top target for the club as they gear up for major changes in the summer of 2026.