Barcelona could exile midfielder from the squad if summer sale fails – report | OneFootball

Barcelona are staring at a pivotal transfer window this month, with the future of key defender Ronald Araujoa emerging as a major topic of discussion.

The Uruguayan is attracting the interest of Juventus and as per reports there is a solid possibility that the centre-back could be on the move before the window ends.

However, according to SPORT, Araujo might not be the only player to leave Barcelona this month, with the futures of Frenkie de Jong, Eric Garcia, and Ansu Fati also very much up in the air.

The departure of Eric seems unlikely as things stand mainly due to two key reasons – his reluctance to leave and the possible exit of Araujo.

But the doors are open for De Jong to leave.

Barcelona’s plans for De Jong

What does the future hold for Frenkie? (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

Frenkie de Jong is in a situation similar to Araujo’s as his contract expires in 2026. Barcelona have repeatedly sought to negotiate a contract renewal with the Dutch midfielder but have been met with silence.

While De Jong intends to remain with the club until the last day of his contract, the Catalans are leaning towards selling him this summer, though a January move is also on the table.

If the club fails to secure either a transfer or a renewal, exiling him from the squad and sending him to the stands could become the most feasible alternative.

After all, as per the report, Hansi Flick no longer counts on the Netherlands international with players like Pedri, Marc Casad, Gavi, Dani Olmo, and even Fermin Lopez ahead of him in the hierarchy, with Marc Bernal’s return from injury still pending.

Given that De Jong is one of the highest earners and no longer a regular starter, Barcelona remain open to his sale in January or the summer.

As mentioned above, the club could consider the removal of the player from the squad in extreme circumstances. Only time will tell how the situation evolves with De Jong and Barça.