Juventus have made no fresh contacts over potential move for €35 million-rated Barcelona heavyweight | OneFootball

According to an update from journalist Matteo Moretto, it has come to light that there has been no recent contact between Juventus and Barcelona regarding Ronald Araujo, despite growing speculation around the defender’s future.

The Uruguayan centre-back, who also serves as one of the team’s captains, has been at the centre of transfer rumours as Barcelona look to balance their books this summer.

While Hansi Flick holds Araujo in high regard and sees him as a key part of the squad, Barcelona are still open to his sale due to the club’s urgent need to generate funds and reduce their wage bill.

With plenty of options in defence, Araujo is viewed internally as the biggest potential earner if a major sale is needed.

Special clause and Juventus’ interest

Barcelona had even included a special clause in Araujo’s contract renewal, allowing his release clause to temporarily drop to €60 million between July 1 and 15, a strategic move in case a top club made an offer during that window.

Juventus have not contacted Ronald Araujo. (Photo by Alex Grimm/Getty Images)

Despite this, no serious moves were made, and Moretto has now clarified that Juventus have not made any recent attempts to negotiate for the player.

While Deco has consistently backed Araujo’s continuity in public statements, he has also hinted that one defender could be sold to ease financial pressure.

Not meant for Araujo

Though the comments were not directly aimed at Araujo, there is growing belief that Andreas Christensen, whose contract runs until 2026, is the more likely candidate to leave. His departure would generate a clean profit, given he arrived on a free transfer.

A few weeks ago, reports in Italy suggested Juventus manager Igor Tudor was keen on Araujo and had pushed for his signing.

The Turin-based club were reportedly prepared to offer €25–30 million, well below the release clause, but that interest now appears to have cooled entirely.

With the temporary release clause period nearing its end and no formal offers received, Araujo now looks set to remain for the 2025/26 season.

*Player valuation in title obtained from transfermarkt.com on date of publication.