Barcelona keeping tabs on 23-year-old Argentine defender in case of Araujo or Christensen departure | OneFootball

According to information from TyC Sports, it has come to light that Barcelona are keeping a close watch on promising Argentine defender Kevin Lomonaco.

The outlet mentions that although the 23-year-old has caught the eye of several clubs in South America, the Middle East, and Europe, none as prestigious as Barça.

With a potential shake-up in the club’s central defensive department, Lomonaco’s name is now seriously being considered at Camp Nou.

Defensive changes at Barcelona

Currently a key figure at Independiente, Lomonaco has impressed with his powerful presence, speed, confidence in possession, and calmness when building from the back.

These qualities have not gone unnoticed by Barcelona, who are said to be looking for a new leader in defence amid uncertainties surrounding the futures of Ronald Araujo and Andreas Christensen.

Araujo, despite being under contract until 2031, has seen his role reduced under new manager Hansi Flick. Christensen, on the other hand, has one year left on his deal but has struggled with injuries.

Kevin Lomonaco is on Barcelona’s radar. (Photo by Marcelo Endelli/Getty Images)

In light of these potential departures, Lomonaco is being discussed as a fitting successor with all the attributes that match Barcelona’s footballing identity.

Affordable release clause

Lomonaco’s contract with Independiente runs until December 2028, and he recently received a pay rise that makes him one of the top earners at the club.

However, his buyout clause stands at $20 million (around €17.3 million), a figure that is not considered excessive by European standards.

Independiente’s general secretary, Daniel Seoane, has made it clear that the player will not leave for less. “If an interesting offer doesn’t come from Europe, he’ll stay at Rojo,” Seoane said earlier this year.

As things stand, Barcelona’s ability to move for Lomonaco will depend on player exits. If Araujo or Christensen depart, the Argentine could become a genuine option to reinforce the backline.