Deco sentences Ronald Araújo with a €40M signing: 'He's arriving in January...'

Ronald Araújo is the main figure in FC Barcelona's planning for next season. The Uruguayan center-back, who two seasons ago was considered one of the best defenders in the world, has lost solidity. His mistakes when playing out from the back, combined with a worrying lack of physical consistency, have led the club to start looking at other options.

Deco still trusts his potential, but Barça needs immediate solutions. Ronald Araújo remains a player with great defensive ability and leadership, but his current level doesn't meet expectations. Flick values his commitment, although he's starting to consider that his profile doesn't fully fit with the play style he wants.

Deco is already working on a major signing to bench Ronald Araújo

Deco is working quietly to find viable alternatives in the market. The sporting director knows Barça needs a center-back with good ball distribution, who combines physical strength and tactical ability. The club's financial limitations force them to act cautiously, but the sporting management is determined to take a step forward in January.

That opportunity could have a first and last name: Nico Schlotterbeck. The Borussia Dortmund defender has been followed for months by Barça's scouts, who believe that his style would fit perfectly in the culé defense. At 25 years old, the German international is an undisputed starter in the Bundesliga and one of the most complete center-backs in the European scene.

According to sources close to the club, Nico Schlotterbeck's signing is shaping up as a real possibility for the winter transfer window. The main obstacle will be the price, since Dortmund doesn't want to easily part with one of their key pieces. However, if the deal is kept around €40 million, Deco would be willing to make an effort to close the agreement.

Nico Schlotterbeck would leave Ronald Araújo out

For Ronald Araújo, the news is a clear warning. If Nico Schlotterbeck's arrival is finalized, the Uruguayan will have direct competition for the position. Over time, it's very likely that the Uruguayan will be forced to leave in search of playing time.

Deco, meanwhile, has a clear plan: to secure the arrival of a defender who guarantees reliability and continuity. The goal is for Barça to be solid at the back again, something they've lost in recent months. With Nico Schlotterbeck, Flick's project would gain consistency and a key position for the immediate future would be reinforced.

Everything suggests that January will bring major moves in the Catalan defense. Ronald Araújo still has credit, but his starting spot is no longer untouchable. If Borussia Dortmund agree to negotiate and the final price is around €40 million, Nico Schlotterbeck will be the chosen one.