Barcelona and Chelsea could agree on a swap deal for Ronald Araújo and Nicolas Jackson
Barcelona and Chelsea are considering a potential swap deal that would send Uruguayan defender Ronald Araújo to Stamford Bridge in exchange for Senegalese striker Nicolas Jackson. The negotiations, still at an early stage, come as both clubs remain active in the transfer market in search of final reinforcements before the new season.
Barcelona have been working to resolve La Liga registration issues and recently secured Marc-André ter Stegen’s registration, ending concerns about starting the campaign without their first-choice goalkeeper. However, the Catalan club continues to evaluate offers for players not seen as guaranteed starters, aiming to generate revenue while trimming the squad.
Chelsea’s renewed interest in Araújo follows the injury to Levi Colwill, which has left manager Enzo Maresca short of options in central defence. The Blues had made an approach for the 25-year-old last year, but Barcelona resisted, and the player himself has consistently expressed a desire to remain at Camp Nou.
The scenario has shifted slightly after the sale of Iñigo Martínez, which could see Araújo’s role increase under new coach Hansi Flick. Even so, Chelsea believe an exchange deal could appeal to Barcelona, who are seeking a long-term successor to Robert Lewandowski.
Under the proposal, Jackson who scored 14 goals in all competitions last season would move to Barcelona, while Araújo would join Chelsea. The swap is considered financially balanced, as both players have similar market valuations, making the transaction feasible without significant cash adjustments.
Convincing Araújo remains the main challenge. The defender is under contract with Barcelona until 2026 and has repeatedly stated his commitment to the club. Any move would likely depend on Chelsea guaranteeing him a starting role in Maresca’s system.
Chelsea were last in action on 8 August, defeating Bayer Leverkusen 2–0 in a pre-season friendly at Stamford Bridge. Brazilian teenager Estêvão scored his first goal for the club in the victory, further boosting optimism ahead of the Premier League kickoff.
