Ronald Araujo to stay, Andreas Christensen to go? Barcelona’s defensive plans taking shape
The club want at least four center-backs for next season.
BARCELONA, SPAIN - MARCH 22: Ronald Araujo of FC Barcelona celebrates a goal during the Spanish league, LaLiga EA Sports, football match played between FC Barcelona and Rayo Vallecano at Spotify Camp Nou stadium on March 22, 2026 in Barcelona, Spain. (Photo By Javier Borrego/Europa Press via Getty Images) | Europa Press via Getty Images Barcelona’s plans for next season are starting to take shape as Hansi Flick looks to reshape his squad for the 2026-27 campaign. The Catalans want to have four center-backs in the squad, as well as Gerard Martin who can also play at left-back, but it’s not clear just yet who will make up the defensive quartet.
A new report from Sport claims that Ronald Araujo is looking increasingly like staying. The defender has endured a difficult campaign, and took time out for a mental health break, but has come back strongly. The report claims Barca have “maximum confidence” in the center-back and are counting on him for the future.
As for Araujo, he’s happy where he is and has no thoughts of leaving . It’s a different story for Andreas Christensen . The Dane has been handed an offer to continue but is still yet to respond.
Barca’s offer involves Christensen taking a big pay-cut and there’s a feeling he’s waiting to see if any more offers arrive. The Catalans are happy for Christensen to stay on but want an answer soon, particularly as they are also thinking about trying to bring in Alessandro Bastoni from Inter.