How Araujo contract affects Rudiger’s future
James Shearman
- Updated: 6 Apr 2022 19:18 BST
- 3 min read
Barcelona defender Ronald Araujo has agreed to a contract extension which could affect the plans of Chelsea's Antonio Rudiger.
Araujo is Gerard Pique's centre-back partner for La Blaugrana, and looked like he would be leaving the club imminently.
The Uruguayan's existing deal runs out at the end of the 2022-23 season but, according to journalist Fabrizio Romano, he is set to prolong his stay.
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Araujo only broke into the Barcelona first team last season and already has 73 appearances to his name.
He's also won nine international caps and is slowly becoming on of the best defenders in the game.
Whether he remains alongside Pique next season is unknown, but one thing that is for sure is that he won't have Rudiger by his side.
How Araujo contract affects Rudiger’s future
Antonio Rudiger has elevated his game under Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel and is now recognised as world class.
Indeed, his stellar performances, alongside Thiago Silva, helped the Blues to Champions League success last season.
And, he has continued in fine form this campaign, leading to interest from a number of top clubs.
Not only would he be an excellent addition to any team in the world, he will be available on a free transfer this summer.
Barcelona have not made an official bid for Toni Rudiger, just direct contacts with his agents - it's now considered unlikely as Christensen will sign for Barça and Araújo will extend his contract, 100%. 🔴 #FCB
Ronald Araújo new deal is already sealed, release clause included. pic.twitter.com/erGdwfNCcu
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) April 6, 2022
Barcelona had been one of those to be interested, as well as La Liga rivals Real Madrid, but said interest has now cooled with the Araujo news.
But it is not simply that Araujo and Pique make such a good partnership. The Spaniard is 35 years of age and will need replacing sooner rather than later.
The reason is, in fact, that Barca have already reached an agreement with fellow Blues player Andreas Christensen.
The Dane is younger and more elegant on the ball, and is who Xavi has picked out as Pique's long-term successor.
