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Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has stressed his desire to keep centre-back Ronald Araujo in the strong midfield. transfer Rumors labeling the Uruguayan as “one of the best defenders” in world football.
Araujo has missed most of Flick’s reign to date after suffering a long-term injury during last summer’s Copa America, making just his first appearance under the German coach in the Copa del Rey win over Barbastro at the start of the new year.
Araujo’s contract expires in 2026 and there is growing uncertainty over his future, Juventus and Arsenal have been strongly linked with the 25-year-old During the current January transfer window.
Talks over a new deal with Barcelona have stalledLeaving the door ajar for potential suitors. Juventus and Arsenal are the clubs currently most interested in Araujo, but there are likely to be others chasing the talented defender.
Asked about Araujo’s future amid growing fears of an exit, Flick expressed his admiration Barcelona defender and expressed a desire to keep him in Catalonia.
“When I started as coach I noticed there were a lot of rumours,” admitted the German boss. “Ronald has come back from a terrible injury and is now fit to play. He is a good option and he is very professional.
“I think we’ve taken care of him well. It’s not my job to talk about rumours, but I want him in my team. He’s one of the best defenders.”
According to the Spanish publication Sports WorldBarcelona are not interested in selling Araujo this month but could be tempted by a bid that meets his reported value of €70m (£59m). In fact, they have already rejected Juventus’ opening offer for the centre-half.
The same publication also revealed that Arsenal would have an advantage over their Italian rivals if Araujo were to decide to leave Barcelona. The player prefers to move to the Premier League.
