Italian giants ready to go all out for €55 million-rated Barcelona stalwart – report

The future of Ronald Araujo at FC Barcelona continues to be a major topic of discussion in the ongoing January transfer window.

Barcelona manager Hansi Flick and club president Joan Laporta have made it clear that they wish to keep hold of the 25-year-old centre-back.

However, the Uruguayan international is said to be leaning towards a departure, having become unhappy with the club’s contract offers as well as his reduced role.

Juventus have emerged as the most ardent suitors for Araujo this month, with Thiago Motta’s side looking for reinforcements at the back following injury setbacks.

Juve ready to go all out

As such, SPORT now reports that Juventus are prepared to go all out to sign Ronald Araujo before the January window closes.

This development comes after their pursuit of SL Benfica’s Antonio Silva – another defender that they were chasing – has hit a brick wall.

Indeed, the Portuguese giants have ruled out selling their prized centre-back, prompting the Bianconeri to shift their focus firmly to Araujo and prepare a formal bid.

The report states that while Barça would ideally want to keep hold of their second captain, they could be open to a sale if offers in excess of €50 million were to arrive.

The injury to Inigo Martinez and Flick’s desire to retain Araujo both weigh against a potential transfer.

However, Barcelona’s financial constraints and the Uruguayan’s openness to a move could expedite negotiations if Juventus comes forward with a compelling bid.

As such, the ball is in Juve’s court to convince Barça with an offer that meets their demands for the talented defender.

*Player valuation in title obtained from transfermarkt.com on date of publication.