Juventus wants to open negotiations for defender Ronald Araújo
Barça director Deco says Uruguayan star is “not for sale” despite €30M Juventus interest
Barcelona defender Ronald Araújo continues to draw interest from top European clubs, with Juventus the latest to consider a formal bid. However, Barça’s sporting director Deco has made it clear: the Uruguayan is not leaving.
Juventus Prepare €30 Million Offer for Araújo
According to journalist David Bernabeu Reverter from SPORT, Juventus are preparing a €25–30 million offer (approx. R$162M–R$194M) for the 26-year-old centre-back. The same valuation was reportedly made during the January 2025 window, but no deal materialized.
Now, with new coach Igor Tudor pushing for defensive reinforcements, Juve are back in the race.
Transfer Market Frenzy: Milan, United, Bayern, and Liverpool Also Interested
Juventus are not alone. Over the past year, AC Milan expressed strong interest in Araújo and were even willing to include Rafael Leão in a potential swap, according to Mundo Deportivo.
Other European giants such as Manchester United, Bayern Munich, and Liverpool have also scouted the defender, aware of his contract situation and undeniable talent.
Deco Responds: “Araújo is Not Leaving”
Despite the mounting interest, Barcelona director Deco shut down any possibility of an exit during the summer window:
“Ronald has a contract, he recently renewed it, and endured a tough season with a lot of unfair criticism. He’s one of the best defenders in the world. Ronald does not plan to leave.”
His contract runs until June 2031, and according to Transfermarkt, he is valued at €35 million.
Araújo’s 2024/25 Season at a Glance
- Appearances: 25
- Goals: 2
- Assists: 2
- Position: Centre-back
- Club since: 2018 (arrived from Boston River, Uruguay)
Despite injury setbacks and some criticism this past season, Araújo remains a key figure in Barça’s defensive setup.
Juventus Interest Likely to Be Rejected
With Deco’s stance and Araújo’s long-term contract, it’s unlikely that Barcelona will entertain a €30M offer. If Juventus are serious, they may need to increase their bid significantly or include players in a swap deal.
For now, Ronald Araújo remains untouchable at Camp Nou.
