Ronald Araujo of FC Barcelona celebrates during the UEFA Champions League 2023/24 round of 16 second leg match between FC Barcelona and SSC Napoli at Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys on March 12, 2024 in Barcelona, Spain. (Photo by Eric Alonso/Getty Images) (Photo by Eric Alonso/Getty Images)
Juventus are considering increasing their opening offer for Barcelona defender Ronald Araujo after reports of rival interest from Premier League side Arsenal, according to reports in Spain.
Reports on Friday claim that Barcelona have turned down an initial offer of €35m from Juve for the Uruguay international. The Catalan club are reportedly pushing for a fee of more than double Juve’s offer, in the region of €70m-€80m according to updates from Spanish outlet Marca.
Saturday’s report claims that the Bianconeri are considering increasing their offer to the €50m mark in order to secure a deal for the 25-year-old centre-back.
Juventus still exploring Araujo and other defensive options
Juventus still have other options on the transfer market when it comes to defensive additions, though.
A long list of centre-backs have been linked with a move to the Allianz Stadium following the long-term injuries to Bremer and Juan Cabal. Antonio Silva of Benfica still remains an option, while Axel Disasi of Chelsea could be available on loan this month.
