A long-term injury could scarcely have come at a more awkward time for Barcelona when it comes to Ronald Araujo. The 24-year-old Uruguayan is set to undergo surgery on a thigh muscle issue.

Araujo will be ruled out for a minimum of four months and is unlikely to kick a ball in anger until December this coming season. The Blaugrana were open to cashing in on Araujo this summer, but now following the injury, that is an option that is no longer on the table for them.

Barça are confident they can secure a deal for Mikel Merino for approximately €20m, given that his contract expires next year. Hansi Flick has already approved the signing. @alexpintanel

— barcacentre (@barcacentre) July 16, 2024

According to Matteo Moretto, despite their willingness to part with Araujo, and links to Bayern Munich and Manchester United earlier in the year, there were no offers or concrete interest in him. With a move off the table, he says it is now down to Barcelona and Araujo to work things out, despite a new contract not being close. His information is that Barcelona will now try to renew his deal.

The fact of the matter is that it could be more expensive for Barcelona even if they cave to his contract demands. With two years left on his deal, if they cannot renew Araujo before next summer, they will likely face a scenario where he would either leave for a reduced fee or leave on a free in 2026. If they do renew his deal, they could then sell him at a price closer to his market value or hold onto him.

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