Ronald Araujo: The reasons why the Uruguayan would be determined to leave Barça come to light

The possible departure of Ronald Araujo from FC Barcelona in this winter transfer window seems to be increasingly close to becoming an imminent reality. This move, which would undoubtedly be a significant blow to Hansi Flick's sporting project by losing a player considered one of the best in the world in his position, appears to be well-founded by the Uruguayan '4', who seems to have no doubts about his decision, something apparently known by the Culé dressing room.

It is no coincidence that recently images have emerged in which, for example, Gavi and Robert Lewandowski are seen trying to persuade Araujo not to take the step of leaving the Blaugrana club, where he arrived in 2018 from Boston River (Uruguay).

The alleged reasons behind Ronald Araujo's decision to leave FC Barcelona

In this regard, Italian journalist Alfredo Pedulla has revealed the possible reasons that could be driving Ronald Araujo's decision to leave FC Barcelona. Even having the opportunity to gain prominence in the starting eleven after Iñigo Martínez's injury.

According to this source, there are two specific reasons that may have led the defender to take this tough stance: being dissatisfied with the club's economic offer to extend his contract and the imminent desire to seek a new international challenge.

Not satisfied with the club's economic offer for renewal

Regarding the economic aspect, it is not surprising that it could be a source of discontent for Ronald Araujo. In a notable gesture of love for the FC Barcelona shirt, he chose to renew his contract with the Catalan team in 2022 for a considerably low salary, considering the club's financial situation at that time.

However, the renewal was agreed upon with the promise that these amounts would be improved as soon as possible, as he currently earns around 7 million euros gross (approximately 3.3 million euros net) per season. An amount considered inadequate for a player of his sporting hierarchy and weight in the dressing room, as he is not even among the top ten highest-paid players at Barcelona.

Therefore, Ronald Araujo would want this situation to change and receive a contract commensurate with his sporting merits. According to various sources, the Rivera-born player could be asking to double his salary, which would place him among the highest-paid players in the Catalan squad, on par with Jules Koundé.

However, Barça's stance regarding meeting these alleged economic demands of the player to renew his contract is still unknown. This issue has generated some discomfort.

The imminent desire to seek a new professional challenge

Regarding his search for a new professional challenge, it would also not be surprising. Ronald Araujo has been wearing the FC Barcelona shirt for several seasons, this being his only experience in a European team.

Furthermore, in the 2024-25 season, he has not performed optimally as a Culé, losing his place in the starting eleven to the duo Pau Cubars-Iñigo Martínez, with the possible arrival of Jonathan Tah to strengthen the defense next summer also looming. This would create greater competition in a position where the Catalan team has several stellar players.

Therefore, it is understandable that Ronald Araujo may be considering a new destination, especially if big clubs like Juventus show interest in his services. The question remains whether 'Vecchia Signora' or another club joining the bidding for the Uruguayan will be willing to meet FC Barcelona's financial demands to allow his departure. This aspect could complicate any operation related to the defender.