Ronald Araujo’s €1 Billion Release Clause Returns at Barcelona

Ronald Araujo’s release clause at Barcelona is back to €1 billion. A period of two weeks where clubs could sign him for €60 million ended with no offers.

WHAT HAS CHANGED?

Araujo’s contract had a special clause. Other teams could trigger his release for €60 million between July 1 and 15, 2025. No club acted during this window. So, Barcelona restored his €1 billion clause, making signing him nearly impossible without negotiations. Araujo, after thinking about leaving due to losing his spot to Pau Cubarsi and Inigo Martinez, has chosen to fight for his place under manager Hansi Flick. Barcelona’s sporting director and coach want Ronald Araújo to stay because they see him as the team’s best center-back.

THE CONTEXT: ARAUJO AND BARCELONA’S SEASON

Barcelona had a good 2025/26 season, winning La Liga, the Copa del Rey, and the Spanish Super Cup with Hansi Flick. As the team finished last season as champions in La Liga, Araujo played in 25 matches, scored two goals, and provided two assists. He struggled for playing time due to injuries and competition. He has publicly said he does not want to move and is focused on regaining his starting position, especially since Barcelona won La Liga, the Spanish Super Cup, and the Copa del Rey last season.

LOOKING AHEAD: WHAT’S NEXT FOR ARAUJO AND BARCELONA?

The transfer window has closed, and no new center-back is expected. Araujo will concentrate on regaining his spot in the starting eleven. Barcelona, leading the league, will soon start their new La Liga title defense. They will travel to Asia for pre-season matches in Japan and South Korea. Their first match will be against a mid-table opponent as they aim to keep their narrow lead over Real Madrid, who are just three points behind them. According to a report, Barcelona won La Liga, the Spanish Super Cup, and the Copa del Rey last season.