Report: Barcelona fear star defender's agent could force exit on free transfer | OneFootball

Barcelona are growing increasingly concerned that the agent of Ronald Araujo could push for the star defender to leave Catalonia on a free transfer, a report has claimed.

The Uruguayan is closing in on a return to action having been sidelined through injury since the 2024 Copa America over the summer, and he was named among the substitutes for Barcelona's recent 3-2 victory over Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League.

Araujo could feature in Sunday's clash with Leganes in La Liga, which would be his first outing under Hansi Flick, but there remain fears over the centre-back's long-term future.

According to Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona are uncertain over whether Araujo's agent and representatives want him to continue his career with the club or cash in on a move elsewhere.

Ronald Araujo (R) has been missing with injury this season / David Ramos/GettyImages

With his current contract expiring in 2026, Barcelona are concerned that Araujo's team could push for the 25-year-old to leave on a free transfer, potentially securing him a higher wage and lucrative signing bonus with another club.

The Catalan giants are eager for Araujo to sign a new deal but they believe that the player's agent may not have relayed that information to their client.

Discussions over Araujo's future will have to take place soon, with Barcelona not in a financial position that would allow them to let Araujo leave for free in 2026. If he decides not to renew his current deal, they will have to sell him.

There will be plenty of suitors for Araujo over the coming months, with Chelsea and Manchester United having been touted with interest previously.

Injuries have been an unwanted theme of Barcelona's season and they will welcome Araujo's return with open arms despite his uncertain future. Pau Cubarsi and Inigo Martinez have both been overworked this term, although La Blaugrana will need to be careful with Araujo's reintegration.