Barcelona are actively looking to offload several first-team players in the coming weeks as they seek to balance their books and reduce their wage bill, a key requirement for re-entering La Liga’s 1:1 financial rule, which allows full registration of new signings.
While players like Marc-André ter Stegen, Andreas Christensen, and Ronald Araujo have been linked with potential moves away, one of them now looks increasingly likely to stay — and it’s a major blow for interested clubs.
Araujo’s €60m Clause Expires — Now Set at €1 Billion
Uruguayan centre-back Ronald Araujo had a reduced €60 million release clause valid only during the first two weeks of the summer transfer window — a clause inserted during his recent contract renewal, following his decision to remain at the club after previously considering a move.
However, according to Fabrizio Romano, no clubs activated the temporary clause, and as of now, the clause has reset to €1 billion, effectively ending hopes of a cut-price exit.
Sporting director Deco is reportedly determined to keep Araujo, viewing him as a key part of the team’s defensive core moving forward.
Christensen Now Likely to Be Sold
With Araujo staying, attention turns to Andreas Christensen, who now appears to be the most likely centre-back to leave this summer. The Danish defender endured an injury-plagued campaign and, with just one year remaining on his current deal, Barcelona are open to his departure if a suitable offer arrives.
So far, no formal bids have been submitted, and one obstacle could be Christensen’s own reluctance to leave. Nevertheless, Barça are prepared to sanction his exit in order to generate funds and comply with financial fair play regulations.
Barcelona’s Summer Plan: Sell Smart, Rebuild Strategically
Barcelona’s transfer strategy hinges on smart player sales, particularly in defense, where at least one centre-back is expected to depart. With Araujo now essentially off the market, Christensen may be the club’s most viable asset to move.
Unless a major twist occurs, Ronald Araujo is staying put at Camp Nou — and his €1bn release clause ensures that any future move would need to go through Barcelona’s negotiation table, not the buyout route.