The Premier League is apparently interested in Barcelona centre-back Ronald Araujo, with Chelsea the frontrunners.
After being promoted to the first team by previous manager Ronald Koeman in 2020, Araujo has made significant development at Barcelona. The 22-year-old has been a key player for the team this season and is said to be on Chelsea's radar.
This season, Araujo has played nine times in La Liga and four times in the Champions League for Barcelona at the back.
Chelsea, on the other hand, is trying to replace some of their elderly defenders with young blood, and Araujo is being touted as the ideal candidate, according to Mundo Deportivo. According to the rumour, Chelsea is willing to spend a lot of money to sign the Uruguayan.
Chelsea might struggle to sign Araujo from Barcelona
Barcelona has had a difficult couple of years, and Xavi Hernandez's arrival is being heralded as the start of a new era.
On the Barcelona squad, Xavi has some talented players, and Araujo is one of them. The Uruguayan is seen as a long-term replacement for Gerard Pique, who is 35 years old and nearing the end of his career with Barcelona.
At 22, Araujo has proven to be a mature defender who is tailor-made for the style of football Xavi wants to play.
According to Mundo Deportivo, Araujo is happy in Barcelona and is not looking for a new club. As a result, signing the defender will be difficult for Chelsea. Barcelona is anticipated to begin talks with Araujo about a new long-term contract when his current contract expires in 2023.
Chelsea may miss out on signing him if they don't make a move in the January transfer window due to the club's reputation for putting absurd release clauses in contracts.
If Barcelona plays hardball, Chelsea may have to look elsewhere for defensive reinforcements in the coming transfer window.
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