After a rather turbulent transfer market deadline day, FC Barcelona and their fans can now rest assured regarding one of the biggest uncertainties of their winter transfer window concerning a particular right-back from the MLS.
21 years old Julian Araujo has now reportedly been confirmed as an FC Barcelona signing. These reports include the ever-reliable Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano, who himself has now confirmed the signing, including details of said transfer as follows:
“Araujo will sign a contract until June 2026, deal agreed with LA Galaxy for a bit less than €4m total package. It’s done.”
The player brings some much-needed depth at the right-hand side of the defense. Currently, said position is being preoccupied by French center-back Jules Kounde, upon whose versatility in the position FC Barcelona have had to rely upon in recent times. While the Frenchman has done a tremendous job slotting in there, it is still not his preferred position to play in.
The player previously was plying his trade for LA Galaxy in the American MLS, but now makes his big move to Europe to play for one of the biggest sides in the continent.
As of right now, it remains uncertain how the player will be incorporated within the first team, as that decision entirely remains dependent on the CAS, so until then the player can not appear as a useable option for Xavi under the aliases of the primary team or any else for that matter. However, reports suggest the current plan is for Julian Araujo to train with Barca Atletic after he reaches the city, which is expected to be around tomorrow.
How FC Barcelona decides to deploy the player within their ranks and how the player adjusts to the significantly higher quality of football and level of competition within Europe remains to be seen. However, there is no denying that the young Mexican International will surely be one to keep an eye on.
