Ronald Araújo arrived at FC Barcelona as a great prospect. His strength, speed, and ability to dominate in defense quickly made him one of the team's pillars.
For several seasons, he was an undisputed starter, a guarantee at the back. However, the arrival of Hansi Flick and certain ups and downs in his performance have changed things.
Today, Ronald Araújo is no longer untouchable. The club has included him on the summer transfer list, seeking to raise money and strengthen other areas of the team. What seemed like a simple operation is becoming much more complicated than desired.
A price the market doesn't accept
Barça is asking for between €50 and €60 million for the Uruguayan center-back, which the sporting management considers a fair price. Araújo is only 26 years old, he has shown potential and can still improve, but the market doesn't see it the same way. In the last two seasons, his injuries and some mistakes in important matches, especially in the Champions League, have lowered his value in the eyes of other clubs.
The top European teams, which in the past would've competed for him, are now focused on other priorities or have financial restrictions. Bayern, Liverpool, Manchester United and other big names have been linked to Araújo in rumors, but none have made a formal offer or one close to what Barça is asking for.
Juventus: The only real option
The only club that has shown concrete interest has been Juventus of Turin. But the Italians can't reach the amount Barça is demanding. To make the deal more attractive, Barça proposed including Kenan Yildiz, a young Turkish talent, as part of the deal.
However, Juventus didn't accept. They see Yildiz as a key piece in its future project and aren't willing to negotiate for him. This leaves the deal stalled and forces Barcelona to consider other options.
What future awaits Araújo?
The current situation leaves a complicated outlook. Barça accepts that, without a surprise offer, Ronald Araújo could stay or leave for less than desired.
This forces the club to rethink its financial strategy and look for other ways to balance the books. Meanwhile, Araújo keeps training professionally, although his future is hanging in the air.
For now, neither Bayern nor Liverpool nor any other European giant are willing to pay the price Barça is asking for. The offer is "all or nothing." For Araújo, this summer will be decisive for his career.