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Ronald Araújo with a black face mask and a blue and red jersey is in the foreground, while Deco appears on the right side of the image against a purple background.

Goodbye Ronald Araújo! New Partner for Cubarsí: Deco Activates TOP Signing for €0

Deco already has Ronald Araújo's replacement ready if he ends up leaving Barcelona

FC Barcelona isn't just planning its squad for next season, but Deco is already thinking about how he could improve this team in 2026. In every transfer window, those who'll become free agents and could arrive for zero euros are analyzed in detail. While it's true that none have been convincing this summer, for the next one there's a name that's highly favored... especially for the defensive line, where there are doubts.

Ronald Araújo has a contract until 2031 and, although he seems to have ruled out leaving in this transfer window, the possibility would be open for 2026. Barça is willing to let him leave for a good price, especially considering it has to find the ideal partner for Pau Cubarsí. Next season, Iñigo Martínez is expected to continue alongside him, but his contract ends next year when he'll be 35 years old.

Young man wearing a blue and garnet jersey smiling in front of the FC Barcelona crest
Pau Cubarsí, untouchable at Barça | Getty Images, Madrid-Barcelona

Between the possible departures of the Uruguayan and the Basque, Deco has set the goal of finding the ideal partner for Cubarsí. It seems he's hit the mark, finding a defender who'll become a free agent in the summer of 2026 and could arrive for zero euros: Marc Guéhi from Crystal Palace.

Barça is after Marc Guéhi

Marc Guéhi has caught the attention of several European giants. Right now, Liverpool and Newcastle are fighting to sign the England international. But Barça is keeping a close watch, making it clear it would only enter into a deal for 2026. The center-back's contract ends and he'd be an attractive option, with several members of the sporting management considering it a move similar to Christensen's.

The Briton would be seen as a great opportunity if he decided to leave as a free agent for another team. If he doesn't renew with Crystal Palace or ends up leaving this summer, he'll continue to be closely monitored in an effort to complete his signing.

Soccer player in a Crystal Palace uniform during a match looking to the side
Marc Guéhi will be a free agent in 2026 | Getty Images

He's a different profile, but it's believed he fits perfectly with Cubarsí. He's currently valued at about €60 million (about $65 million) and has just been crowned FA Cup champion. He's highly regarded at Barça, but the instruction is clear and must be followed.

This season, Marc Guéhi has played 44 matches wearing Palace's jersey, with a record of 3 goals and 2 assists.