The transfer market is already heating up in Barça's offices. Joan Laporta and his team are working against the clock to close deals. Both for arrivals and departures, decisions are starting to accelerate.
The president needs to lighten the wage bill and make room for new faces. Some names are on the table as possible strategic sales. One of them has sparked strong interest in Italy.
Juventus has made a move in recent hours. The Turin club is looking to strengthen its defensive line with a high-level profile. For this reason, it has submitted a financial offer that hasn't gone unnoticed.
Juventus makes a 30 million euro offer and awaits Barça's response
The Italians' target is Ronald Araújo. The Uruguayan defender hasn't had his best season due to injuries. In addition, he has lost his place in the starting eleven after several important mistakes.
Juventus already tried to sign him in January without success. Now it returns with a firm offer that reaches 30 million euros. At Barça, the response has been immediate and forceful.
Joan Laporta stands firm and reminds of Araújo's contract terms
Joan Laporta doesn't want to part with one of his defensive leaders so easily. A few months ago, the center-back renewed his contract until 2031. That extension came with a clear and well-defined clause.
The set price for Araújo is 65 million euros. Laporta has made it clear that he won't accept a single euro less. In fact, he has already communicated that any lower offer will be automatically rejected.
Time is running out and Juventus must act quickly if it wants to convince Barça
Araújo's clause will be valid for 65 million euros only from July 1 to July 15. After that date, it will increase to 80 million euros. That makes Juventus's margin for maneuver very narrow.
If they really want to close the deal, they will have to raise their offer as soon as possible. Meanwhile, Laporta remains firm in his position. He believes that Ronald Araújo still has much to offer in the new project.
Laporta's decision sends a clear message to the transfer market
The president doesn't want to give anyone away. He believes that the Uruguayan can still recover his best form with continuity. He doesn't intend to strengthen a European rival without fair compensation.
Juventus's interest shows that Araújo still has a great international reputation. At Barça, they value both his potential and his attitude. For now, his departure seems more difficult than it appeared.