Arsenal are reportedly in the market to sign Barcelona defender Ronald Araujo, as the Uruguayan centre-back is said to be keen on a move to the Premier League.
Having made over 150 appearances for Barcelona since joining from Boston River for just £1.5 million in 2017, Araujo has become a key figure in the Catalan side’s defense.
However, a hamstring injury kept him sidelined for the first half of the season, and his recent return has been met with limited game time under manager Hansi Flick.
With Flick having established a settled center-back pairing of Paul Cubarsi and Inigo Martinez, Araujo faces stiff competition to reclaim his spot in the starting lineup.
Araujo’s current contract, which runs until 2026, is becoming a point of contention as contract talks have stalled. Barcelona, while reluctant to entertain loan offers this January, could listen to permanent offers for the defender should he fail to commit to a new deal.
Reports suggest that Araujo has expressed interest in leaving Barcelona, with a move to England high on his list of priorities. He has long been intrigued by the Premier League and is believed to be particularly attracted to the playing style of Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal, which suits his strengths.
The defender’s growing dissatisfaction with his situation at Barcelona has raised alarms within the club, and while Juventus have also shown interest, they are reportedly keen on a loan deal—something Barcelona is not keen to entertain.
Araujo recently commented on his future in an interview, confirming ongoing talks with Barcelona regarding a potential contract renewal but emphasized that his focus remains on regaining full fitness.