Barcelona only arrived back in the Catalan capital in the early hours of Monday, still dazed after their dream win over Real Madrid in the Spanish Super Cup final. However, for sporting director Deco, it will immediately be an issue again upon his return.
This is because Juventus will present an improved offer for Ronald Araujo on Monday afternoon, Relevo reports. The Bianconeri are discussing a bid that could amount to €50 million, believed to be close to Barcelona's valuation for the Uruguayan defender, although they are expected to ask for more. An injury to Inigo Martinez, which could keep him out for the next five weeks, has been cited as a potential obstacle to the deal, but Barcelona are more likely to enter the transfer market than halt a sale of Araujo to cover for the Basque defender.
Previous reports late last week claimed that Barcelona had already rejected a bid from Juventus worth around €35 million. A meeting is planned this week between Deco and Araujo's agents, where Barcelona will discuss his intentions. If he asks to leave, Barcelona are expected to negotiate his sale.
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