Exclusive – Juventus agree terms with 25-year-old Barcelona star.

Ronald Araujo is expected to become Juventus’ first signing in January 2025, after the club made substantial headway in negotiations with the player’s camp. This development comes as Juventus wants to bolster its defensive line for the rest of the season, a need that has been highlighted by the club’s recent troubles at the back. Araujo has struggled with injuries in recent years, limiting his playing time and consistency. The defender has only recently returned to duty after his latest absence. However, Juventus looks unconcerned with his fitness record, believing he can make a substantial contribution once completely incorporated into their group. According to insiders at Juventus FC, Juventus have agreed personal terms with the player, it is now just a case of agreeing terms with Barca.

Barcelona are reportedly open to parting ways with Araujo, as the defender’s injuries have complicated his role within the team. Juventus are now focusing on negotiating a loan deal with the Catalan club that would include an option to make the move permanent at the end of the season. While financial terms are yet to be finalised, Juventus are optimistic about securing his signature in the coming days.

Juventus originally struggled to clinch the signing of another defensive target, Antonio Silva, whose transfer proved more complicated than expected. This emphasises the urgency of completing the transaction for Araujo, who has emerged as their most viable alternative during the current transfer window. The 25-year-old defender has established himself as one of Europe’s best when completely fit, gaining a reputation for his physicality, tactical understanding, and ability to dominate one-on-one scenarios. Araujo’s prospective arrival in Turin might help solve Juventus’ defensive weaknesses and provide a boost as the club seeks to challenge for domestic and European titles in the second half of the season. It remains questionable whether Barcelona will make it easy for Juventus to get Araujo’s services, particularly as the Spanish club continues to deal with their own financial and squad-building challenges. The next few days and weeks will be crucial in determining whether the Uruguayan makes the switch to Serie A, but the signs suggest that a deal is likely.

Read more on sportupdates.co.uk