Arsenal have been handed a boost in signing one of Barcelona’s best defenders this winter, according to Mundo Deportivo (page 8).
The Gunners have the best defensive record in the Premier League this season, conceding only 18 goals in 20 matches.
Despite this, the club continue to be linked with centre-backs. They are reportedly ‘very interested’ in signing Ronald Araujo.
The Barcelona ace is aware of the ‘strong interest’ from Arsenal and Juventus in signing him.
Araujo is dissatisfied with his present situation at Barcelona. He is currently the back-up centre-back behind Pau Cubarsi and Inigo Martinez.
With the Blaugrana poised to sign Jonathan Tah on a free transfer this summer, Araujo does not see his future with the Spanish club.
Araujo would prefer a move to the Premier League over joining Juventus in Serie A. He feels Arsenal’s playing style under Mikel Arteta suits him.
Barcelona won’t entertain loan bids for the 25-year-old, but they are open to sanctioning his permanent sale for an ‘irrefutable’ offer this winter.
Araujo moving to Arsenal would be a huge surprise
The Gunners are well-equipped in the central defensive department. William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes have been mainstays under Arteta.
Jakub Kiwior is the immediate back-up option. The Poland international has stood out on occasions and remains a quality deputy in the first-team squad.
Jurrien Timber has generally started on the right side of the defence this campaign, but he is predominantly a centre-back and can play there when required.
The club also have Ben White and Takehiro Tomiyasu. The duo are nursing injuries but are anticipated to return towards the end of the season.
On that basis, Arsenal are unlikely to consider signing a marquee centre-back.
Araujo would be a quality buy due to his strong distribution, aerial presence and ability to clear his lines.
The £46 million-rated defender is perfectly suited for the Premier League with his physique, but he has been prone to picking up niggles throughout his Barcelona career.
Araujo could avoid injuries with a reduced workload, but the big question is whether he would entertain a back-up role behind Saliba and Gabriel.
The duo have exceptional fitness levels and have barely been injured in the last 18 months.
The continuous speculation with Araujo could be agent-driven to invite interest from other clubs.
Arsenal need an elite right winger or centre-forward this winter. It does not make sense to spend big on another central defender.
