Barcelona Faces Defensive Departures, Monitors Replacements Amid Transfer Window Activity

FC Barcelona is navigating a significant summer transfer window with multiple defensive concerns and strategic moves. Juventus has revived interest in Barcelona captain Ronald Araujo, who, despite a reduced release clause and limited playing time under coach Hansi Flick, has publicly stated he does not plan to leave, though Barcelona may sell him to free up salary space for new signings like Nico Williams. Concurrently, Barcelona is monitoring 23-year-old Argentine defender Kevin Lomonaco as a potential successor in central defense, contingent on departures such as Araujo or Andreas Christensen, whose future remains uncertain due to injuries and contract status. The club is also managing the midfield void left by Sergio Busquets, with Oriol Romeu, an emergency signing who struggled to meet expectations and recently completed a loan at Girona, likely to have his contract terminated, enabling him to move freely. On the offensive front, Barcelona aims to fund a new left winger by offloading players like Pau Victor, who, despite limited playing time, has attracted suitors but may leave only via a loan or a €20 million sale. Finally, although Barcelona showed initial interest in strengthening the right-back position with AS Monaco's Vanderson, financial fair play constraints and other priorities have relegated this pursuit, even as clubs like Tottenham also compete for the Brazilian defender.