In recent months, Bayern Munich has been actively pursuing Barcelona defender and third-captain Ronald Araujo. The Bundesliga champions expressed a strong desire to sign the talented Uruguayan international during the January transfer window, even offering a significant sum for his acquisition. However, no agreement was reached at that time.
Subsequently, it was widely reported that Bayern Munich continued to prioritize the signing of Araujo and viewed him as a key target for the upcoming summer transfer window.
However, there has been a recent development in Bayern’s pursuit of a new central defender. According to SPORT, the German club has now shifted their focus to SL Benfica’s Antonio Silva, making him their primary target and moving on from their interest in Araujo.
For several months, Bayern’s management had been keen on securing the services of the Barcelona star, especially after Xavi’s announcement to depart at the end of the season, which they believed could facilitate a potential move. However, the plans have since changed, and the new sporting director, Max Eberl, has elevated Silva to the top of their priority list at Säbener Straße.
On the other hand, despite Bayern Munich’s strong interest, Araujo has consistently expressed his commitment to Barcelona and emphasized that he has never considered leaving the club. In a recent media interaction, he reassured the fans that they need not worry about his future.
I am very well, my family is very well, I am very well in Barcelona, I am very happy here, I have been here for almost five years and I show that every time I wear this shirt on the pitch and I will always do it, I am very happy to be here,” Araujo said.
Barcelona, on their part, have no intention of selling their captain either. Instead, they are focused on securing the services of the Uruguayan center-half for the long term. In fact, a meeting has already taken place between Araujo’s agents and Barcelona’s sporting director Deco. During the meeting, both parties expressed their mutual commitment to continuing their partnership and agreed to initiate contract negotiations in the near future. The aim is to reach an agreement that will extend Araujo’s stay at the club.