Barcelona Eyes Major Squad Changes Amid Transfer Market Plans
Barcelona is gearing up for significant activity in the upcoming transfer window, with a focus on selling several players to raise funds for new signings aimed at strengthening the squad. This strategy reflects the club’s urgent need to rejuvenate its lineup and reinforce various positions while navigating financial constraints that demand a careful balance between athletic goals and economic realities.
According to El Nacional, shortly after the season ended, a surprising development emerged: Ronald Araujo, who had been close to leaving during the winter, was suddenly pulled off the market. Juventus had expressed interest, and Araujo was reportedly open to the move, but teammates like Robert Lewandowski convinced him to stay. Despite this, uncertainty surrounded his future, with a €65 million release clause making a summer exit possible.
Barcelona then shifted direction again, opting to retain Araujo while placing Andreas Christensen up for sale, even though his contract runs through 2026. Letting Christensen leave next summer would bring no financial return.
However, new manager Hansi Flick reversed that decision. He chose to keep Christensen and offer Araujo limited chances to prove himself. Flick has reportedly been unimpressed with Araujo’s performances, especially given his injury issues this season. On several occasions, Flick preferred Eric Garcia, even with his inconsistencies, over Araujo. Other defenders like Pau Torres and Iñigo Martínez have also been favored.
Flick has made his stance clear: if Araujo stays, he will play only in emergency situations. As a result, the club views a summer transfer as the best outcome for both sides.
El Chiringuito de Jugones reported that Barcelona has given Araujo a deadline of July 10 to decide, and they’ve set his price tag at €60 million. The club would welcome his sale, particularly to finance a key target—Nico Williams—whose release clause is in the same range.
Araujo’s situation is increasingly precarious, with this past season being his weakest since joining the senior squad. He made just 25 appearances, mostly off the bench, and his market value has declined from €70 million to around €35 million. Nevertheless, Barcelona is hopeful that his transfer could provide the necessary funds for strategic reinforcements.
