Premier League heavyweights Arsenal have reportedly entered the race to sign Barcelona defender Ronald Araújo, who is also a target for Serie A giants Juventus, Soccernet.football reports.

Araujo is currently making his way back to full fitness after a hamstring injury sidelined him for the first half of the season. A fully fit Araújo is widely regarded as one of the world’s best center-backs and this has made him one of the most sought after players in Europe.

Barcelona remain determined to keep the Uruguay international and have been negotiating an extension to his current contract, which runs until June 2026. However, talks over a new deal have stalled, with reports emerging on Wednesday that the 25-year-old had unexpectedly ‘agreed’ to a loan move to Juventus in January.

Arsenal have reportedly stepped into the fray, according to Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo, with the Gunners said to be looking to beat their Italian counterparts to the signature of the Uruguayan.

Injuries have plagued Arsenal’s usually solid backline this season, leaving the Gunners desperate for defensive reinforcements as they aim to close the gap on Premier League leaders Liverpool. Araujo’s versatility could prove vital with the Barcelona man capable of filling in at right-back as he did during Xavi Hernandez’s time in charge of the Blaugrana.

Injuries to Ben White and Jurrien Timber have seen Mikel Arteta play midfielder Thomas Partey at right-back on several occasions this season. The Arsenal manager has remained tight-lipped about the club’s plans in the January transfer window, but most of their targets focus on attacking players, especially after Bukayo Saka’s serious injury.

It goes without saying though, that the Gunners will need to shore up their defence if they hope to stand a chance of mounting any serious challenge against runaway league leaders Liverpool. It will be interesting to see, which areas of the squad they decide to strengthen during the January window.

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