Barcelona identify Copa America star with €20m release clause as Nico Williams alternative

Uruguay have been one of the most impressive teams at the 2024 Copa America, currently ongoing in the United States. Barcelona defender Ronald Araujo has been one of the standout performers for Marcelo Bielsa’s side, and sporting director Deco has now taken notice of one of his teammates.

As reported by El Chiringuito’s Marcos Benito, the Portuguese has set his sights on Maximiliano Araujo, who registered two goals and one assist during Uruguay’s Copa America group stage fixtures. The 24-year-old is regarded as a low-cost alternative to Nico Williams, who continues to be Barcelona’s top target for the left wing position.

At club level, Araujo plies his trade at Mexican side Toluca, and his release clause there is €20m. At this stage, it’s unknown whether this would be the asking price demanded, but even if it is, it’s significant lower than the €58m needed to sign Williams from Athletic Club.

Araujo has been very impressive for Uruguay over the last couple of weeks, and it will be interesting to see whether he can continue his form when he matches up against Brazil later this week. Barcelona and Deco will no doubt be following his progress in that showdown clash.