Barcelona to go ahead with right-back’s signing through CAS appeal or summer deal

As is tradition at this point, Barcelona faced a ton of drama on deadline day as they scrambled to complete signings. Fiorentina’s Sofyan Amrabat and Los Angeles Galaxy’s Julian Araujo were among the targets on Barcelona’s radar.

However, neither deal went through as Barcelona struggled to reach an agreement with all parties involved. The problems were vastly different, though.

With Amrabat, Barça had tabled a €40 million loan-plus-option to buy offer to Fiorentina, which was rejected. The Moroccan international tried to push for a move by skipping training and personally speaking to the president, but to no avail.

On the other hand, Araujo’s move was stranded due to late paperwork from MLS. The final documents arrived 18 seconds after deadline day, which halted the move.

Barcelona tried to appeal their case to FIFA, but were turned down. They have now turned their attention towards CAS.

Either way, though, the Catalans seem to be thoroughly impressed with the Mexican defender and want to sign him either this month through the court appeal, or in the summer on a permanent transfer, according to Fabrizio Romano.

Barcelona have an agreement with the player on a three-year deal, with his initial contract set to be with the reserve side. He would, however, have a role with the senior team, as well, getting call-ups.

This way, he would be registered with the youth side, and Barça will not face any problems penning his contract with the league.

Further, after Hector Bellerin’s departure, and Sergi Roberto’s expiring contract, if Araujo impresses Xavi and the coaching staff with his time with the first-team, he could become the face of the team at right-back. At least, temporarily.