Sunday, 12 January 2025

ARSENAL EYE TRANSFER FOR BARCELONA STAR WHO 'REJECTED LIVERPOOL AND CHELSEA' - BUT THERE'S A CATCH

Arsenal are reportedly lining up a move for Barcelona defender Ronald Araujo, who has previously rejected interest from Premier League rivals Liverpool and Chelsea



Arsenal are reportedly keen on signing Barcelona defender Ronald Araujo, who has previously turned down offers from rivals Liverpool and Chelsea. The Uruguayan centre-back has become a fan favourite at the Catalan club due to his leadership skills and robust challenges.

A hamstring injury has kept him sidelined for much of the season, with the 25 year old only recently making his return in the 4-0 victory over Barbastro last weekend. Despite this, he is yet to fully win over head coach Hansi Flick, who prefers Pau Cubarsi and Inigo Martinez as his central defensive duo.

According to Mundo Deportivo, Arsenal are preparing a January bid for Araujo, something the player is said to be seriously considering. It's reported that Araujo has grown frustrated with certain situations at Barcelona, causing concern among the club's hierarchy.

While Barcelona would be hesitant to agree to a loan deal this winter, they would consider parting ways with Araujo if they receive a substantial and irresistible offer. With just 18 months left on his contract and extension talks stalled, Barcelona have already rejected an offer from Juventus this month due to his importance to the squad.

However, it's suggested they would entertain offers around €70million (£58million), reports the Mirror.

Unlike Juventus, Arsenal have the financial strength to make the move happen. Araujo has always been "curious" about testing himself in the Premier League, and Mikel Arteta's style of play is said to suit him.

However, it's worth noting that Arsenal already have a strong defensive line-up, with their focus this transfer window being on securing a world-class striker. Araujo's decision to turn down a move to the Premier League in 2022, despite lucrative offers from both Liverpool and Chelsea, will certainly endear him to the Gunners' fans if a transfer does go ahead.

According to Sport, he rejected the two English powerhouses when his previous contract was nearing its end, choosing instead to sign a new deal for less money than he would have earned in the Premier League. In an interview with Cadena SER earlier this week, Araujo avoided speculation about his future, but confirmed that talks were underway regarding a possible extension at Barcelona.

"We are talking with the club about my renewal," he said. "But I am fully focused on playing again and getting minutes under my belt."

- Kasra Moradi

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