Al-Ittihad Chief Issues Bold Transfer Ultimatum to Barcelona: 'I Would Sign Him Tomorrow'

Ex-Barcelona sporting director Ramón Planes has expressed keen interest in securing Ronald Araújo's services for Al-Ittihad during the upcoming summer transfer window.

Planes, currently holding the sporting director position at the Saudi club, is actively seeking ways to strengthen his title-winning squad in preparation for the 2025–26 campaign. As Al Hilal successfully acquired Theo Hernández and Al Nassr secured both Cristiano Ronaldo and João Félix, Al-Ittihad finds itself lagging in the competition for high-profile European talent.

Among the various players recently connected to potential Saudi Pro League moves, Planes identified the specific Barcelona defender he would most desire for Al-Ittihad's upcoming season.

"I would bring him in immediately," the 57-year-old expressed to MARCA. "He ranks among the world's finest central defenders."

Compared to other Barcelona squad members, Araújo represents a more attainable target for Al-Ittihad. Given his injury struggles and reduced standing behind Iñigo Martínez and Pau Cubarsí in Hansi Flick's hierarchy, the Uruguayan defender might be viewed as a peripheral figure despite holding the vice-captaincy.

Araújo featured in just 25 matches for the Catalan club during their domestic treble-winning 2024–25 season. The 26-year-old occasionally found himself as Flick's fourth defensive choice, even trailing Eric García in the rotation.

Given these circumstances, it's hardly surprising that Araújo has been connected to a potential departure from Catalonia this summer. Such a transfer could provide Barcelona with much-needed revenue amid their well-documented financial difficulties.

However, Flick recently addressed Araújo's situation and appeared to dismiss any speculation regarding an imminent exit.

"What reason would he have to depart?" Flick questioned. "While numerous rumors circulate, I currently receive no indication from him or any other player. I believe we possess an excellent squad with outstanding quality throughout."

Barcelona might alternatively consider parting with Andreas Christensen, who was sidelined for nearly the entire previous season due to injury. Nevertheless, Araújo would probably command a superior transfer fee given Planes and Al-Ittihad's public interest.

The Uruguayan's position at Barcelona will likely remain uncertain even if no summer transfer materializes. Ultimately, his prospects of displacing either Martínez or Cubarsí in the coming season appear quite limited.