It seems as if the Julian Araujo transfer saga to Barcelona is finally over. A snag in the contract and fees delayed the January move until now. Araujo will join Barca on a permanent deal worth around $4 million and remain under contract until 2026.
The two teams previously had a plan in place on deadline day of the January transfer window. However, paperwork for the agreement was apparently filed 18 seconds too late. Despite both clubs protesting the refusal to confirm the transfer, FIFA upheld the original decision.
Barca are fairly desperate to add another right back to the squad. After allowing Hector Bellerin to join Sporting, the club currently only has Sergi Roberto in the position. Roberto has, however, made just five LaLiga starts in the role this season. Head coach Xavi has instead recently opted to pick typical center back Jules Kounde for the right back position.
Defender can’t play LaLiga matches for Barca just yet
There is one fairly significant caveat to Araujo joining Barca though. The 21-year-old defender can’t play for the senior Barca team for the remainder of the current campaign. Araujo will instead be forced to feature for the club’s B team.
There is, however, an interesting Mexican link with Barca’s secondary side. Former Mexico legend Rafa Marquez currently coaches the team now referred to as Barcelona Atlètic. Araujo, despite being born in the United States, has made three official appearances for the Mexico national team.
Mexican legend reveals deal
Marquez has also confirmed the move by Araujo to sports media outlet Relevo. “It wasn’t my request, but I’m delighted that he’s coming. They’ve already been watching him since before I arrived,” stated Marquez.
“Now the situation has arisen and I’m delighted. He’s going to be with me for a while and then move on to the first team. Let him do a bit adjusting and I hope he has a nice career here.”
Marquez joined Barcelona Atlètic in the summer of 2022 on a two-year agreement. The former defender previously managed RSD Alcala’s U15 team for the 2020/21 season.
PHOTO: IMAGO / ZUMA Wire
