Barcelona coach Hansi Flick has stressed his desire to keep centre-back Ronald Araujo in the middle tRANSFER rumors labeling the Uruguayan “one of the best defenders” in world football.
Araujo has missed most of Flick's reign to date after suffering a long-term injury during last summer's Copa America, only making his first appearance under the German coach in the Copa del Rey win over Barbastro at the beginning of the new year.
With Araujo's contract expiring in 2026 and uncertainty growing over his future, Juventus and Arsenal have been strongly linked with the 25-year-old during the January transfer window.
Talks on a new deal with Barcelona have stalledleaving the door open to potential suitors. Juventus and Arsenal are the clubs most interested in Araujo at the moment, but there are likely to be others chasing the talented defender.
Asked about Araujo's future amid growing fears of an exit, Flick revealed his admiration for Barcelona defender and expressed the desire to keep him in Catalonia.
“When I started as a coach, I saw that there were a lot of rumours,” admitted the German boss. “Ronald came back from a terrible injury and is now ready to play. He is a good option and is very professional.
“I think we've taken very good care of him. It's not my job to talk about rumours, but I want him on my team. He's one of the best defenders.”
According to the Spanish edition World of SportsBarcelona are not interested in selling Araujo this month, but could be tempted by an offer that meets the reported €70m (£59m) valuation. In fact, they have already rejected Juventus' opening bid for the centre-half.
The same publication also revealed that Arsenal would have an advantage over their Italian rivals if Araujo decides to leave Barcelona. with the player favoring a move to the Premier League.