Transfer Centre

Barcelona director reveals Julian Araujo paperwork was 18 seconds late

By Ben Sully | 01 February 2023

Barcelona director reveals Araujo paperwork was 18 seconds late

Barcelona director Mateu Alemany reveals that a computer error led to the paperwork for Julian Araujo's proposed deal to arrive 18 seconds late.

Barcelona director Mateu Alemany has revealed that the documentation for Julian Araujo's proposed transfer arrived 18 seconds too late due to a computer error.

The Catalan giants were looking to strengthen their squad before the January transfer window closes with the additions of Araujo and Fiorentina midfielder Sofyan Amrabat.

Barcelona were unsuccessful in their attempts to sign Amrabat on a loan deal, after Fiorentina rejected their proposal.

While they were unable to land Amrabat, they appeared to be confident that they could complete the signing of Los Angeles Galaxy right-back Araujo.

Although initial reports suggested that Barcelona were keen to secure Araujo on loan deal, it was later revealed that they had reached an agreement over a £3.5m transfer.

LA Galaxy defender Julian Araujo pictured in October 2022 © Reuters

However, Barcelona are facing an anxious wait to learn if the deal can be completed after the necessary documentation arrived less than a minute after the transfer window closed.

The club's director has now confirmed further details about the situation, revealing that a computer error caused the delay.

"We didn't arrive on time due to a computer error," Alemany told Movistar. "The delay was 18 seconds. We'll have to wait and see what FIFA decide".

Barcelona are now waiting for a verdict from FIFA to establish whether they can sign the Mexico international.

FC Barcelona coach Xavi reacts on January 8, 2023 © Reuters

Should FIFA give the all clear, Araujo will join the Barcelona 'B' team and sign a deal until June 2026.

Araujo would still be eligible to feature for the first team, who have used a number of different players on the right side of the defence.

Jules Kounde, Ronald Araujo, Sergi Roberto and Alejandro Balde have all been utilised in the right-back position by Xavi this season.

Kounde, Araujo and Balde all featured in Wednesday's 2-1 away victory over Real Betis, which moves league leaders Barcelona eight points clear of Real Madrid, who play Valencia on Thursday.