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Ronald Araujo Barcelona 2023-24Getty Images

Chelsea eye massive signing as they join Bayern Munich in race to sign Ronald Araujo - but Barcelona's massive demands may put defender out of reach

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Article continues below

Article continues below

  • Chelsea looking to sign Ronald Araujo
  • Bayern also interested in the defender
  • Barca don't want to sell the Uruguayan
  • Thiago Silva Chelsea 2023-24Getty Images

    WHAT HAPPENED?

    As per Mundo Deportivo, Chelsea are keeping a keen eye on the Uruguayan defender for a potential summer move as they believe he could take over as the leader in defence following Thiago Silva's departure from Stamford Bridge this summer.

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  • THE BIGGER PICTURE

    The Uruguayan currently has a contract with the Blaugrana that runs up to the summer of 2026 and also has an unrealistic release clause of €1 billion (£850m/$1.08bn). To further complicate the situation for Chelsea, Araujo is one of the names on the Catalan side's non-transferable priority list. However, due to Barcelona's economic troubles, the London outfit know that a big bid would likely appeal to Joan Laporta and company as they must comply with La Liga's FFP rules.

  • DID YOU KNOW?

    Barca reportedly held talks with the Uruguayan over a potential contract extension earlier this year but negotiations have not progressed since as the Catalan side have put an extension on 'stand-by' as they look to make further investments in the squad.

  • Hansi Flick XaviGetty

    WHAT NEXT FOR ARAUJO?

    The Uruguayan defender's future could also depend on who is the manager at Barcelona next season as the club has been moving haphazardly in regard to Xavi Hernandez's future at the club. It is now very likely that Hansi Flick could join the Catalans to take over from the former midfielder.