Barcelona Transfer News Roundup: Hansi Flick wants Joao Felix to stay, Manchester United eyeing Ronald Araujo, and more - June 28, 2024
Barcelona failed to defend the La Liga title in the 2023-24 campaign, finishing second behind bitter rivals Real Madrid. The Catalan giants have already roped in Hansi Flick as Xavi's replacement to help them get back to their best next season.
Meanwhile, the German manager has informed Joao Felix that he wants him to stay at Camp Nou. Elsewhere, Manchester United are trying to convince Ronald Araujo to join them this summer.
On that note, let's look at the major Barcelona transfer stories from June 28, 2024.
Hansi Flick wants Joao Felix to stay at Barcelona
Hansi Flick wants Joao Felix to stay at Barcelona next season, according to journalist Alex Silvestre.
The Portuguese forward joined the Catalan outfit on loan from Atletico Madrid last summer.
Felix had a decent 2023-24 campaign, registering 10 goals and six assists from 44 games across competitions. The club would prefer to keep hold of the player beyond this summer, while the 24-year-old also wants to stay.
However, the finances involved make it difficult for Barcelona to complete a deal. Felix is under contract at Civitas Metropolitan Stadium until 2029 and Los Rojiblancos want €50m for his services.
Barca are in financial distress and do not have the funds to complete a move. Meanwhile, Felix is no longer part of Diego Simeone's plans and Atletico Madrid want to offload him this year. However, his lack of playing time at Euro 2024 could hurt the club's chances of finding a suitor.
The Blaugrana, meanwhile, are proposing another loan deal, which might suit Los Rojiblancos as well. Flick is pleased with the player and has Felix firmly in his plans for the upcoming season.
The German manager believes he can get the best out of the 24-year-old. Flick has already informed the Portuguese about his intentions and the two clubs now have to agree to a deal.
Manchester United eyeing Ronald Araujo
Manchester United have not given up on their pursuit of Ronald Araujo yet, according to SPORT.
The Uruguayan defender remains heavily linked with an exit from Barcelona this summer, amid interest from the Red Devils as well as Bayern Munich.
Araujo is one of the first team leaders at Camp Nou and is a regular in the starting XI. His status is likely to stay intact under new manager Hansi Flick. However, the Catalans' poor finances could force them to consider offers for the 25-year-old.
The Bavarians were eager to sign Araujo in January but a move failed to materialize. The German giants are yet to return with an offer for the Uruguayan this summer. Meanwhile, the Red Devils are looking for a new defender this year following Raphael Varane's departure.
The 25-year-old could be a fine replacement for the Frenchman, and the Premier League giants are even willing to double his salary if he agrees to join.
Barcelona remains eager for Araujo to stay, but cannot offer a salary at par with Manchester United. As such, the player could be tempted to consider a move to Old Trafford.
Barca ready to offload Vitor Roque
Barcelona are ready to listen to offers for Vitor Roque this year, according to TEAMTALK.
The Brazilian forward joined the Catalan giants in January 2024. Initially earmarked as Robert Lewandowski's successor, Roque struggled for chances under Xavi and endured an underwhelming campaign.
The 19-year-old scored two goals from 16 games across competitions, with most of his appearances coming off the bench. It was previously believed that the La Liga giants want him to stay, despite considerable interest in his signature.
However, it now appears that Barcelona have altered their stance and will allow Vitor Roque to leave for the right price this year. Manchester United have been linked with the Brazilian of late and a move to Old Trafford cannot be ruled out.