Barcelona reject Juventus’ first offer for captain, will only consider selling for €70 million | OneFootball

In a major development, Barcelona have rejected the first formal offer from Juventus for Ronald Araujo, as confirmed by Mundo Deportivo.

Despite knowing about the Italian club’s interest in signing the 25-year-old defender since last week, and after Araujo’s agent requested the club to review the proposal, Barça’s response was unequivocal: “He is not on the market.”

The Blaugrana see Araujo as a crucial piece in their squad, especially with the team gunning for major trophies this season after not winning anything last time out.

The club emphasises that the central defender, who also happens to be the second club captain, is vital to their ambitions in the second half of the campaign.

The stance could change

While Barcelona are adamant about keeping Araujo, the report adds that they would entertain the possibility of a transfer under specific circumstances.

Barcelona see Araujo as a key cog. (Photo by Candice Ward/Getty Images)

If the player explicitly requests a move and brings an offer worth around €70 million, the Catalans might reconsider their position. Araujo’s contract runs until 2026, giving Barça leverage in any negotiations.

Barcelona acknowledge that Araujo’s market value could decline if they wait until the summer, when he would have only a year left on his contract.

However, the club prioritises his contribution to the current season, as they view him as a top-tier central defender critical to their pursuit of titles.

Meanwhile, Fabrizio Romano mentions that negotiations between the clubs will enter key stages next week, with Juventus making Araujo a top priority. No major movement will take place until after the Spanish Super Cup.

For now, he remains a key figure in Barça’s plans, but his future could hinge on Juve’s willingness to meet the club’s high valuation – or a direct request from the player to move on.