Ronald Araujo is determined to stay at Barcelona as Tottenham Hotspur circle
One of Tottenham’s biggest positive this season has been their vastly improved defensive displays. The Lilywhites look far more assured at the back under Thomas Frank, with the Danish tactician implementing a disciplined build-up structure and a compact system that leaves few gaps for opponents to exploit. As a result, Spurs have already managed five clean sheets across all competitions this campaign.
Their defensive solidity has also been strengthened by the presence of two of the Premier League’s standout centre-backs. Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven have struck up a formidable partnership, complementing each other’s strengths and proving the foundation for Tottenham’s strong start. Keeping the duo fit and in form for the entirety of the season will be a top priority for Thomas Frank.
However, the drop-off in quality becomes glaringly obvious whenever Romero or Van de Ven are unavailable. Injuries and a lack of depth have already forced Frank into making difficult decisions, including deploying Joao Palhinha as a makeshift centre-back earlier this season. Such situations highlight the need for reinforcements at the back, especially with fixtures set to plie up as Spurs compete on multiple fronts.
Tottenham eyeing a deal for Barcelona star Ronald Araujo
Unsurprisingly, Tottenham are expected to target a new centre-back in the upcoming winter transfer window to provide cover and competition for their first-choice pairing. If the Lilywhites are to sustain challenges on all four fronts this season, squad depth will be crucial.
One of the most important moves Spurs made in the summer was securing Cristian Romero’s long-term future at N17. The Argentina international brings leadership and intensity to the backline, and losing him would have created a major headache for Frank. Even so, the club remains keen to add another high-level defender – someone who can not only provide backup but also push Romero for the starting spot.
As per Sport, Spurs are interested in landing Barcelona defender Ronald Araujo in the coming months. The Uruguay international has been a central figure for Hansi Flick’s men at the back, making the deal complicated for the Lilywhites. However, it is believed that the Blaugrana would be tempted to reluctantly accept an offer of around €50m-€60m for his services.
Signing Araujo would represent a huge coup for Spurs. The 26-year-old is renowned for his defensive intelligence, reading of the game, and ability to snuff out danger before it develops. His pace and aggression in transitions allow him to push high and win the ball back quickly – qualities that would fit seamlessly into Thomas Frank’s system.
That said, the report also states that Tottenham are not alone in their pursuit of Arajo. Liverpool and Chelsea are also monitoring the defender’s situation, with all three Premier League clubs eager to convince him to make the switch to England. But with the Uruguayan determined to cement his place as a cornerstone of Flick’s Barcelona project, pricing him away in January will be no easy task.
Will Spurs succeed in bringing Araujo to N17? Or will the defender stay put in Spain to fight for his place at the Cam Nou? Only time will tell.
