Juventus, Arsenal on alert as Ronald Araujo’s affordable release clause is revealed | OneFootball

Earlier this week, Barcelona confirmed that Ronald Araujo had signed a new contract until 2031, ending speculation about a possible departure. However, that will only be until the summer, as there is a very good chance that moves are made to take the Uruguayan defender away from Catalonia.

Araujo had appeared set on leaving Barcelona this month after becoming unhappy with his place in Hansi Flick’s squad, although he was convinced to stay by sporting director Deco, who made him promises during these discussions. One of those was that his release clause, which was previously set at €1bn, would be lowered to an amount that was deemed affordable for interested clubs.

Barcelona did not disclose the new figure when announcing the deal, but it has been revealed by Relevo. They say that €65m is the amount that clubs can pay in the summer, but if no one does, it will rise to €80m from next January onwards.

Ronald Araujo signed a new contract with Barcelona earlier this week (Photo by EPA)

Juventus pushed hard for Araujo earlier this month, so it would be no surprise if they re-ignited their interest in the summer, now that they know the figure that is needed to get a deal done. Arsenal have also been linked with the 25-year-old in recent weeks, and the figure of €65m would be very affordable for them in particular, given the money that is on offer in the Premier League.

It is far from ideal for Barcelona to have an important player like Araujo available at such an affordable price, although if the alternative was him not missing a new contract, and subsequently losing him for even less, then it is not the worst arrangement in the world. Nevertheless, it does mean that there will be a lot of jeopardy on the matter going into the summer’s transfer window.