In a recent print edition, Sport mentioned that Chelsea are eager to move in for Barcelona defender Ronald Araujo. It is understood that the Blues are showing interest in recruiting the Uruguayan centre-back at the end of this season.
Araujo’s Impressive Form In Spanish Football This Season
Araujo has enjoyed a decent campaign at the Nou Camp so far and has managed to produce some impressive displays for Barca on the defensive end of the field. The 22-year-old has played in 25 matches for the Catalan outfit this season, scoring three goals in the process across multiple competitions.
The South American defensive ace has been a solid presence at the centre of Xavi’s defence based on his average of 1.1 tackles, 0.8 interceptions and 1.9 clearances per 90 minutes in La Liga. He has been accurate when distributing possession from the back after making 90.1% of his attempted passes in the Spanish top-flight (stats via whoscored).
Is Araujo The Right Fit For Chelsea?
Araujo is often quick to spot the danger and doesn’t mind putting his foot through the ball when required. He enjoys making a tackle and can time them well to earn possession back inside his half. The Uruguayan talent excels at playing his way out from the back and has settled into Xavi’s playing style quite well.
Thus, it is no wonder that Araujo is gathering interest from a top club like Chelsea. Thomas Tuchel has currently got the prospect of dealing with the departure of both Antonio Rudiger and Andreas Christensen due to expiring contracts.
It is essential for the Blues head coach to recruit a new defender of Araujo’s quality so that he has a strong squad capable of challenging for major trophies in the coming seasons.
At 22, the Barca defender has got a bright future ahead of him which makes him a good fit for the West London giants to consider when the transfer window reopens later this year. Araujo fits the bill perfectly and has got what it takes to become a future star at Stamford Bridge as long as he receives regular playing time on the field.