Transfer Profile: Ronald Araújo

Ronald Araújo


By Oliver Gafsen

As a decisive summer transfer window approaches Arsenal have joined the hunt for defender Ronald Araújo, the breakout star in Barcelona’s resurgence under Xavi.  

Xavi has described the Uruguay international as ‘essential’, but contract talks have stalled with Barca’s final offer only a fraction of Premier League wages given their financial turmoil.

Araújo could be sold for as little as £30 million with Chelsea, Liverpool and Man United rumoured to be in the running, so here’s a little more about this future icon of our shores.


Who is he?

 

Born in Uruguay Araújo signed for Primera Division side Boston River at 18, quickly attracting attention from the Baluagres scouts and joining Barca’s B team after a single season in 2018.

He scored six Segunda B goals in 42 appearances but had an inauspicious start to the first team, sent off 13 minutes after coming off the bench against Sevilla on debut during a campaign plagued by injury.

However, when Eric Garcia struggled for form Araújo seized the opportunity to become a stalwart of Barca's backline, with hopes the Catalan’s had finally found the heir to Gerard Pique.

Despite his age Araújo is a natural leader, showing his warriors mentality when he played Madrid with screws fresh in his hand and becoming a fan favourite by taunting the Espanyol bench.


How would he improve Arsenal?

 

The Gunners defence has improved exponentially under Ben White and Gabriel, but there are questions over depth as well as fears of competing at Champions League level.

Goals against Madrid, Atletico and Sevilla this season demonstrate Araújo’s comfort on any stage, a special talent whose pace has led to a highlight reel of game saving tackles.

At 6’3 and with a preternatural ability to hang in the air, Araújo losing a duel is a sight seldom seen, dribbled past only 0.22 times per 90 thanks to his physical prowess and relentless aggression.

When Xavi returned wanting a front foot style of play there were questions of adaptability asked, but the defender is a quick study with a 94% pass completion rate, and his ability to use both feet, create chances and deputise at right back make him a perfect match for Arteta.


Verdict

 

Araújo has expressed a wish to stay at Barca but this feels unlikely given his contract expires in 2023, with the Catalans desperate to avoid another Lionel Messi free transfer debacle.

Chelsea’s bid will be subject to sanctions and Liverpool have priorities besides defence, but Arsenal will face stiff competition from Ralf Rangnick who has made no secret of his interest.

If Arsenal secure the South American's signature it would be not just a coup, but a statement of a club ready to return to the elite level. 


Photo Credit: Getty Images

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