Barcelona star facing uncertain future as Hansi Flick plots major transfer next summer: Reports
Barcelona are reportedly plotting to add Jonathan Tah to their defensive lineup, potentially casting doubt on Ronald Araujo's future at the club. The Bayer Leverkusen centre-back has become one of the most sought-after defenders as European juggernauts look to snap him up in the summer of 2025.
The German defender joined Die Werkself in 2015 for a reported transfer fee of €9.5 million. In 370 games for the German side, he contributed 15 goals and 12 assists. He was one of the major contributors to Bayer Leverkusen's famous Bundesliga win last season.
The 28-year-old played 31 games in Bundesliga 2023-24, maintaining an impressive 95% passing accuracy. Moreover, he recorded 5.2 ball recoveries per game and was included in the Bundesliga Team of the Week twice.
According to a report by Fichajes.net, Barcelona are interested in signing Jonathan Tah as a free agent in the summer of 2025. The German's contract with Bayer Leverkusen expires on June 30, 2025.
The aforementioned report suggests that Tah's potential signing could spell trouble for Ronald Araujo. The Catalan giants could reportedly sell him to ease the club's financial troubles. The transfer fee for Tah is reportedly set between €70 million and €80 million. Araujo's potential sale could not only ease their financial trouble but also open up salary space for signing new players.
Ronald Araujo has not played any games for Barcelona this season as he's been recovering from a hamstring injury since July 2024. However, the Uruguay international was crucial to the Blaugrana defense under former coach Xavi. In 150 outings for the Catalan outfit, he has recorded eight goals and five assists.
(All statistics are taken from Sofascore on November 22, 2024. The site is privately owned and may change the data as per its prerogative.)
Barcelona star Lamine Yamal to sign long-term six-year-contract with the club after turning 18: Reports
According to Spanish outlet El Chiringuito TV, Barcelona are set to offer teenage prodigy Lamine Yamal a long-term six-year contract. This will come after he turns 18 in 2025.
As per current laws, Yamal is not allowed to sign a professional contract as he is still 17 years old. Therefore, La Blaugrana are waiting for the La Masia graduate to turn 18 before securing his long-term future at the club. The aforementioned report also suggests that Yamal will have a reported €1 billion release clause.
The Catalan giants have reportedly already discussed its terms with Yamal's agent, Jorge Mendes and have an agreement in place. Lamine Yamal has seen a meteoric rise at Barcelona in the last two seasons. In 67 outings for La Blaugrana, the Spaniard has recorded 13 goals and 17 assists. He is often considered one of the most valuable players in Hansi Flick's side.