Inter are monitoring the situation of Barcelona defender Ronald Araujo as a potential summer reinforcement, according to a report in CdS via Sport. This comes amid stalled negotiations for Inter defender Alessandro Bastoni, with Barcelona manager Hansi Flick reportedly having doubts about the Italian international’s suitability for his system.
Sporting Director Deco has reportedly agreed personal terms with Bastoni and has a preliminary price in mind for negotiations with Inter, but Flick’s reservations have put the deal on hold. Inter’s interest in Araujo presents a possible alternative, though it remains unclear if the Nerazzurri would consider a player-plus-cash deal involving the Uruguayan.
Araujo, 27, has found himself increasingly peripheral under Flick this season, despite making 37 appearances across all competitions. He has scored four goals, but only 15 of his appearances were starts, totaling 1,570 minutes played. The defender has fallen behind Eric Garcia, Pau Cubarsi, and Gerard Martin in the pecking order, raising questions about his long-term future at Camp Nou.
Despite his limited playing time, Araujo has publicly expressed his desire to remain at Barcelona, stating he is happy at the club and is under contract until 2030. Flick is scheduled to meet with Araujo to discuss his role, but Deco may view the defender as a valuable asset to sell, given his high wages and reduced influence on the pitch. Araujo previously took a mental health break earlier this season, further complicating his campaign.
Inter are also reportedly considering other defensive targets, including Luka Vuskovic. The situation remains fluid, with Barcelona’s financial constraints and Flick’s tactical preferences likely to play a key role in determining Araujo’s future. A departure for Araujo could free up funds for Barcelona, while simultaneously providing Inter with a proven defender.
