Julian Araujo to join Barcelona from LA Galaxy after FIFA approve the deal

Los Angeles Galaxy right-back Julian Araujo will join Barcelona, reports transfer guru Fabrizio Romano.

The Mexico international will travel to Spain tomorrow and sign a contract until 2026.

Araujo will join the La Liga club for around €4 million after FIFA approved the deal.

A move for the 21-year-old fell through on the January transfer deadline day after documentation was filed 18 seconds too late. Barca launched an appeal, and FIFA has given the green light.

Araujo will initially join Barca B – the Spanish club’s reserve team – but could make his debut for manager Xavi’s side soon.

The Catalans do not have a natural right-back after Hector Bellerin joined Sporting Lisbon last month.

Sergi Roberto was converted from a midfielder a couple of seasons ago.

Centre-back duo Jules Kounde and Ronald Araujo have also played in the position on several occasions.

Left-back Alejandro Balde has also been deployed there, and the Mexican has a chance to establish himself as Xavi’s first choice.

The California-born right-back scored one goal and claimed five assists in 35 games in the Major League Soccer last term.

He weighed in with six assists in 32 MLS appearances in 2021. Araujo made the MLS All-Star team in 2021 and 2022, which speaks volumes.

He is comfortable in possession, which was one of the qualities that attracted Barca.

The LA Galaxy star is brilliant going forward and can defend – a trait missing in many modern-day right-backs.

Araujo will be glad the move finally got over the line and will be hungry to make an immediate impact.