Arsenal are reportedly battling Juventus for the signature of Barcelona centre-back Ronald Araujo, with the Gunners believed to be keen to secure his services during the January transfer window.
Araujo has only made one appearance for Barcelona this season, playing the full 90 minutes of their Copa del Rey contest with Barbastro in the last-32 stage of the competition.
The 25-year-old missed the opening months of the campaign due to a hamstring problem, which required an operation, but he has been back on Barcelona's bench since the middle of December.
Araujo has entered the final 18 months of his contract at Camp Nou, though, and he refused to offer any guarantees when questioned on his future after the clash with Barbastro.
"We are talking with the club about my renewal, but I am focused on playing again and getting minutes. Will I continue 100% at Barca? We are talking to the club," Araujo told reporters.
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Arsenal 'join Juventus in the race for Araujo'
Juventus are believed to be determined to sign Araujo on an initial loan deal this month, with the switch then becoming permanent at the end of the campaign.
However, according to Mundo Deportivo, Arsenal are also in the race, with Mikel Arteta's side determined to sign the Uruguay international before the January transfer window closes for business.
The report claims that the Gunners are willing to place a substantial offer on the table for Araujo, who has made 151 appearances for Barcelona in all competitions since his arrival from Boston River in October 2020.
Arsenal's interest is somewhat surprising considering the presence of William Saliba and Gabriel in the middle of their defence, with the pair forming one of the best centre-back partnerships in European football.
However, the Gunners want greater depth at the back, and Araujo would undoubtedly be a statement signing for Arteta's side, who are challenging Liverpool for this season's Premier League title.
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Why are Barcelona willing to sell Araujo?
Barcelona are in a tricky financial situation, and selling Araujo would do a lot for them, with the centre-back a player capable of raising a large transfer fee, despite only having 18 months left on his contract.
Inigo Martinez and Pau Cubarsi have formed an impressive centre-back partnership in Araujo's absence this season, while the club are said to be looking to add Jonathan Tah on a free transfer this summer.
Tah's contract with Bayer Leverkusen will come to an end on June 30, and Barcelona are regarded as the firm favourites to secure the services of the Germany international.
Manchester United and Bayern Munich are also believed to be admirers of Araujo, although there are no indications at this moment in time that either club are considering making a move for the South American.
Matt Law
