Title: FC Barcelona Star Set to Switch to Rival in January, Reveals Italian Press
Title: FC Barcelona Star Set to Switch to Rival in January, Reveals Italian Press
Barça star Araujo reportedly inks deal with Juve, as per Italian press! According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, the Uruguayan defender has struck a deal with Italian powerhouse Juventus, citing anonymous sources.
Amid ongoing contract talks, Barça warned Araujo and fellow Blaugrana key player De Jong of their potential transfer market status this summer if contract extensions aren't agreed upon by the end of the year. Araujo's injury earlier this year delayed his debut for new manager Hansi Flick until the Copa del Rey match against Barbastro last weekend.
Some Blaugrana supporters didn't like Araujo's open-ended response concerning renewal talks, despite the 25-year-old conceding negotiations were underway. Araujo reportedly stated, "We're talking about it [with the club], and we hope it can be resolved. I'm focused on playing, securing minutes, and positive feelings."
Now, rumors swirl that Araujo has already sealed a move to Juve in the ongoing transfer window, with the club eager for a quick signing, potentially as soon as next week. Juve sporting director Cristiano Giuntoli is said to be intent on finalizing a loan deal with an obligation to purchase the stalwart from Barça.
Should these reports be accurate, Araujo's Spanish passport will ensure a straightforward transition to Juve's roster, with the defensive duo of Pau Cubarsi and Inigo Martínez posing increased competition. Previously, the Catalan press reported Bayern Munich's interest in the defender 12 months ago.
Enrichment Data:- Araujo agreed to extend his contract with Barça until 2031, but with a revision clause potentially leaving room for transfer discussion this summer.- Juve is pursuing Araujo to strengthen their defense, particularly with Gleison Bremer out indefinitely.- Araujo's reported transfer value of €55 million could play a significant role in any negotiations.
- Despite Araujo agreeing to extend his contract with Barcelona until 2031 with a revision clause, Juventus is reportedly interested in his services to strengthen their defense, following Gleison Bremer's indefinite absence.
- Frenkie de Jong, along with Araujo, was warned by Barcelona about their potential transfer market status if contract extensions aren't agreed upon by the end of the year.
- Araujo's potential move to Juventus could see him compete with Pau Cubarsi and Inigo Martínez in the defensive duo, should the reports of his loan deal with an obligation to purchase prove accurate.
- Hansi Flick, the new Barcelona manager, had to wait for Araujo's injury recovery before debuting him, which occurred in the Copa del Rey match against Barbastro last weekend.