Transfer Centre

Ronald Araujo makes definitive statement on Barcelona future

By Ben Sully | 24 March 2024

Barcelona defender Ronald Araujo insists that he wants to stay with the Catalan giants despite attracting interest from Bayern Munich and Manchester United.

Barcelona defender Ronald Araujo has insisted that he has no intention of leaving the club this summer.

Araujo is regarded as a key figure in the Barcelona backline, having featured in 31 competitive matches for Xavi's side this season.

Despite being one of the first names on the teamsheet, Araujo has seen his Barcelona future become the subject of much speculation.

The club's well-publicised financial issues have led to rumours suggesting that they will need to offload one or two first-team players this summer.

A recent report claimed that Barcelona were willing to entertain offers for Araujo amid interest from Bayern Munich and Manchester United.

Barcelona's Ronald Araujo walks off the pitch after receiving a red card by referee Javier Alberola Rojas on March 5, 2023 © Reuters

Bayern reportedly made an attempt to recruit Araujo in January, while there was a suggestion that Man United made an enquiry during the winter window.

The Red Devils are believed to be on the lookout for a new centre-back, with Raphael Varane and Jonny Evans out of contract at the end of the season.

However, a move to Old Trafford does not appear to be on Araujo's radar after he poured cold water on speculation surrounding his future.

"There's been a lot of talk about this issue, but I'm happy in Barcelona," Araujo told Uraguayan outlet La Quinta Tribuna.

"In addition, we have to finish the season well because there are still challenges, also with Uruguay with the Copa America."

Uruguay's Ronald Araujo celebrates their second goal scored by Nicolas de la Cruz on October 17, 2023 © Reuters

The 25-year-old still has over two years left to run on his current contract, but Barcelona appear to be willing to open negotiations over an extension.

Araujo is seemingly focused on the remainder of the 2023-24 campaign, with Barcelona set to face Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League quarter-finals next month.

They will also be reluctant to give up their La Liga title without a fight despite being eight points adrift of leaders Real Madrid with nine matches left to play.

Before Araujo returns to his club side, he could have a role to play in Uruguay's friendly with the Ivory Coast in Lens on Tuesday.