Joan Laporta is very upset in Saudi Arabia. Right now, FC Barcelona has its entire delegation in the country waiting to play the Spanish Super Cup final against Real Madrid. Far from discussing this Clásico, in the lead-up, just hours before the match, the trending topic is the possible departure of Ronald Araújo heading to Juventus.
During the stay in Arabia, a proposal valued at 35 million euros for Ronald Araújo has arrived, but it has been rejected. The reply was clear: "He'll only leave if he asks for it, and not for less than 70". Right now, the positions are very far apart with Juventus, but it was expected to handle this matter with more "secrecy," trying not to influence the Super Cup final.
There's a lot of money (and prestige) at stake in this match against Real Madrid. Laporta isn't pleased that the most talked-about issue is the possible departure of Ronald Araújo. He's fed up and has made a decision: when he returns to Barcelona, he wants to meet with the captain. If he confirms face-to-face that he wants to leave, negotiations with Juventus will begin.
What Laporta wants is for everyone to be focused on the match just hours before the Clásico against Real Madrid. However, the most talked-about topic is the possible departure of a Ronald Araújo who seems to be in another world. Unofficially, the inputs are clear: he wants to leave, doesn't accept the renewal proposal, and doesn't feel as appreciated as he once did at Barcelona.
Laporta Awaits Ronald Araújo's Confirmation: Reinforcement Ready
Laporta is fed up with the situation and hopes it doesn't harm the rest of the Barça players before the final against Real Madrid. This leak has come at the worst possible time, and nothing else is being discussed in the concentration. However, he expects professionalism from everyone, especially from a Ronald Araújo who is already thinking about a future residing in Turin.
Juventus already knows that to take him, they'll have to pay 70 million euros. Or, at least, get close. After seeing their first proposal of 35 'kilos' rejected, the plan is to raise it to 50. They hope that, with variables, Barça will end up giving the green light to a figure close to 60 million euros.
Laporta is clear that if Ronald Araújo ends up leaving (as it seems), there won't be any transfer. The campaign will end with Cubarsí, Íñigo, Christensen, and Eric in the center of the defense. If any reinforcement is needed there, La Masia will be used. For the next campaign, the chosen one is Jonathan Tah, who will arrive free of contract and for zero euros.
It's not ruled out to make a reinforcement in the team during this January market, but efforts will be directed to the attack front, with Rashford being the best positioned.