da dobrowin： Chelsea are reportedly looking to make a statement signing this summer and could join Bayern Munich in the race to sign Barcelona's Ronald Araujo.

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Chelsea looking to sign Ronald AraujoBayern also interested in the defenderBarca don't want to sell the UruguayanGetty ImagesWHAT HAPPENED?

As per Mundo Deportivo, Chelsea are keeping a keen eye on the Uruguayan defender for a potential summer move as they believe he could take over as the leader in defence following Thiago Silva's departure from Stamford Bridge this summer.

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The Uruguayan currently has a contract with the Blaugrana that runs up to the summer of 2026 and also has an unrealistic release clause of €1 billion (£850m/$1.08bn). To further complicate the situation for Chelsea, Araujo is one of the names on the Catalan side's non-transferable priority list. However, due to Barcelona's economic troubles, the London outfit know that a big bid would likely appeal to Joan Laporta and company as they must comply with La Liga's FFP rules.

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Barca reportedly held talks with the Uruguayan over a potential contract extension earlier this year but negotiations have not progressed since as the Catalan side have put an extension on 'stand-by' as they look to make further investments in the squad.

GettyWHAT NEXT FOR ARAUJO?

The Uruguayan defender's future could also depend on who is the manager at Barcelona next season as the club has been moving haphazardly in regard to Xavi Hernandez's future at the club. It is now very likely that Hansi Flick could join the Catalans to take over from the former midfielder.