Barcelona Star Delivers Blunt Three-Word Message Amid Transfer Rumors
Ronald Araujo has publicly stated his intention to stay at Barcelona during the upcoming summer transfer window, despite ongoing reports suggesting the club's plans to offload a defender are creating internal friction.
Manager Hansi Flick currently oversees five central defenders in his squad. Pau Cubarsí and Iñigo Martinez form his first-choice partnership at the heart of defense, while Araujo serves as one of three backup options along with Andreas Christensen and Eric Garcia.
AS reports directly that Barcelona's sporting director Deco believes having five center backs creates an overcrowded situation and is actively seeking to move one of the three substitute defenders.
Among the three alternatives, Garcia appears likely to secure a contract renewal after demonstrating his adaptability and impressing Flick throughout the previous campaign, which puts Araujo and Christensen in potentially vulnerable positions. The challenge, though, is that both defenders are determined to remain at the club.
Each player has cut short their holiday periods to begin training preparations early, clearly demonstrating their commitment, and Araujo has now made his intentions public regarding his future in Catalonia.
When questioned about his summer plans with Barcelona, Araujo responded to journalists: "For me, yes."
Araujo has recently penned a fresh contract featuring a €60 million ($70.2 million) release clause that becomes effective during the initial two weeks of July, yet he shows no inclination toward seeking a departure. Despite acknowledging his current substitute status, the Uruguayan defender remains confident he can earn his way back into Flick's regular lineup.
This situation puts focus on Christensen, whose current deal expires in twelve months, making him a potential sale candidate, but similar to Araujo, the Danish defender has emphasized his commitment to staying with Barcelona, having established roots in the city and gained Flick's confidence. Deco remains concerned about the approaching contract expiration and would prefer to complete a sale before the summer ends.
Should Barcelona be unable to move either Araujo or Christensen, they may have to consider offers for Garcia, which could potentially frustrate Flick given the manager's clear indication that he views the player as an essential component of his tactical setup.