Barcelona heavyweight’s potential exit put on hold after senior defender’s injury

Ronald Araujo’s future at FC Barcelona may take an unexpected turn in the coming hours. The 25-year-old centre-back has been heavily linked with an exit in the ongoing transfer window.

Juventus have shown the most interest in signing the Uruguayan international and are preparing an offer worth €50 million for the Barcelona second captain, with the Bianconeri being confident of their chances.

While Araujo is said to have been leaning towards an exit, recent developments could change things as far as the direction that his future is headed.

Barcelona to block Araujo exit after Inigo Martinez

As reported earlier today, tests are expected to confirm a five-week absence for Inigo Martinez due to a hamstring tear in his right leg, which he suffered during last night’s win over Real Madrid.

Now, AS reports that this development will severely impact the likelihood of the Uruguayan defender leaving the club with Barça likely to pull the plug on his potential exit.

A meeting was planned this week between Barcelona and Juventus officials to discuss a possible agreement for Araujo’s transfer.

Juventus were counting on the player’s willingness to leave, as he has expressed dissatisfaction with the financial terms offered for his contract renewal with Barcelona.

However, Martinez’s unexpected injury could force a significant shift in Barcelona’s plans. The Basque centre-back is set to miss at least eight games, including five in La Liga, two in the Champions League, and one Copa del Rey match.

As a result, Hansi Flick will need to rely on the remaining centre-backs in the squad: Pau Cubarsi, Eric Garcia, and Araujo. Andreas Christensen, who has been sidelined for nearly six months with ankle issues, will not be an option in the short term.

Given these circumstances and Flick’s recent comments praising Araujo, it seems unlikely that Barcelona will allow the Uruguayan defender to leave.

Additionally, Araujo’s enthusiastic celebration after winning the Super Cup and the support he has received from teammates, particularly Gavi, hint at positive developments for his future at the club.

Barcelona’s sporting committee is set to meet in the coming days, during which the coaching staff, led by Flick, will outline the urgent need to retain Araujo to maintain squad quality.

As such, for now, Araujo’s exit appears to be on hold, with Barcelona likely to keep their defensive stalwart following Martinez’s injury.