FC Barcelona officially confirmed its latest player transfer via the club’s website and social media on Tuesday evening in Europe. “FC Barcelona and AFC Bournemouth have reached an agreement for the transfer of Julian Araujo to the English club for 10 million euros ($10.95 million),” a short statement began.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
“FC Barcelona publicly expresses its gratitude to Araujo for his dedication and commitment, and wishes him every success in the future,” it added.
The Blaugrana further explained how Araujo arrived in Catalonia from MLS side LA Galaxy in February 2023 and formed part of its Barca Atletic reserve team roster.
The California-born Mexico national team star spent last season on loan at Pedri’s former club Las Palmas, and was coached by Barca B’s ex-head coach Garcia Pimienta who now heads Sevilla.
Araujo mustered two goals in 28 appearances from right back, and joined Barca’s first team for its preseason tour of the United States.
It was suspected he might have a part to play in Hansi Flick’s plans moving forward in 2024/2025, but Araujo failed to impress the German as La Masia youngsters such as Hector Fort and Alex Valle gained prominence.
Furthermore, Manchester City-owned Joao Cancelo could still be bought permanently by the Catalans in Araujo’s position while centre back Jules Kounde often operates there where France national team manager Didier Deschamps placed him to start the Qatar 2022 World Cup final against Lionel Messi’s Argentina.
Many felt that Barca could have earned more money from Araujo’s sale, especially when considering he has joined an outfit from the rich Premier League.
But Mundo Deportivo points out that he was originally purchased for around $4.4 million (€4 million), meaning that there has still been a significant profit – more than double what Barca paid for him in early 2023 – generated on the 23-year-old who was essentially a reserve player.
Announcing his capture on a five-year contract, Bournemouth said it was “delighted” to bring Araujo to England.
“Julian is someone who we have tracked for a while now,” revealed Chief Executive Neill Blake, who described him as a “young player with high potential”.
“We’re pleased to have beaten lots of competition for his signature … We believe that we have all the tools here for Julian to build on the quality he already has and we really look forward to welcoming him to Vitality Stadium,” Blake added.
After beating Barca’s Catalan neighbor Girona 3-2 in a preseason friendly last weekend, Bournemouth will make its 2024/2025 debut away at Nottingham Forest on Saturday
