Blues finally identify €35m defender as perfect Christensen replacement
The Blues will turn their attention back to the Premier League title race when they face Burnley at Turf Moor on Saturday. However, Chelsea are currently third in the league table after 25 games.
Meanwhile, According to The Express, Chelsea are eager to sign Ronald Araujo as Andreas Christensen’s potential replacement, The Danish defender’s current contract is set to run out this summer, and he has been linked with a move to Barcelona. The Blues want the Uruguayan to take Araujo’s place in the team.
Christensen has been a pivotal part of Thomas Tuchel’s backline since the German manager took charge at Stamford Bridge in January last year. However, the Danish defender looks set to leave the Premier League giants at the end of the season.
The Blues have failed to convince the player to remain at the club, with the Blaugrana edging closer to his signature. The Blues have now identified his replacement in Araujo, much to the chagrin of the Blaugrana.
Araujo has gone from strength to strength at the Camp Nou recently, but his current contract runs out in 18 months. The Blaugrana are locked in negotiations with the 22-year-old, who wants to continue his association with the La Liga giants.
Araujo is currently on the same contract he has had as a youth player. The Uruguayan is one of the lowest earners at the Camp Nou, and he wants a contract that reflects his importance to the club. The Blues are monitoring the situation with interest, and could dive in should an opportunity arise.
Thomas Tuchel would prefer to keep Christensen at Stamford Bridge, so any move for Araujo would depend on the future of the Dane. Barcelona want to keep hold of Araujo, but could cash in on him if the player refuses to sign a new deal.
Meanwhile, another Blues player – Cesar Azpilicueta – who runs out of contract this summer, is reportedly on the radar of Barcelona.