Juventus chief breaks silence on Ronald Araujo transfer talk and drops 'positive news' hint about Barcelona defender

Barcelona has reportedly turned down an initial offer from Juventus for Araujo, emphasizing the 25-year-old's importance to the team. The Catalan club values the player at €70 million (£58m/$72m) and has made it clear that they would only consider a transfer if their valuation is met.

Hansi Flick considers Araujo a crucial figure in Barcelona's defensive lineup, with his leadership and physicality making him an indispensable asset. The defender recently returned to action after missing the first half of the 2024-25 season due to a hamstring injury. His comeback was marked by a full 90-minute performance in a 4-0 victory over Barbastro in the Copa del Rey earlier this month.

Giuntoli was pressed for details on specific targets, including Araujo and Paris Saint-Germain striker Randal Kolo Muani ahead of Juventus' Serie A clash against Torino. While he refrained from providing concrete updates, he did maintain an ambitious stance on securing both players.

“These are two good players, but the transfer window is only just opening and we hope to get some positive news over the next week," he told DAZN.

However, Giuntoli also discussed the challenges of securing high-profile players during the January transfer window.

“We must respect many different parameters, both economic and technical, and it is difficult to get great players in January, so we need to have patience," he added.

"In general, it might be better to bring in someone who already knows Serie A, but we also have to look around at what is available and there aren’t many alternatives in Italy.”

While transfer rumours swirl, Barcelona are gearing up for a crucial match in the Supercopa de España final against arch-rivals Real Madrid. The showdown in Saudi Arabia offers Flick's side an opportunity to secure their first trophy of the season.