Osasuna enter race to sign talented Barcelona defender

It’s widely been reported that Barcelona has agreed to allow talented defender Julián Araujo to go out on loan for the 2023-24 season, and last week it was reported that he would head to Las Palmas, but he’s yet to sign off on the move.

The delay in confirming the loan move has allowed other teams to enter the race, with Pamplona side Osasuna the latest to be linked with the Mexican fullback.

Barca manager Xavi has made it clear that Araujo must head out on loan this year to ensure he can receive the minutes needed to continue his development, and with Las Palmas being promoted to La Liga last year, it seemed like the perfect destination for the 21-year-old.

Barcelona is still looking to sign a right-back, but disagreements within the management team are delaying that, as well as a need to confirm outgoings to generate room under the financial fair play regulations.

Porto, Osasuna & Feyenoord offer alternative destinates for Araujo

If Araujo decides that he wants to stay in Spain, he can choose between Las Palmas and Osasuna, but if he wants to test himself abroad, then he has two options on the table.

Dutch outfit Feyenoord have reportedly shown interest in signing Araujo on loan, and after winning the Eredivisie last season, they can offer him Champions League football.

They also have fellow Mexican Santiago Giménez on the books.

Porto can also offer Araujo Champions League football, and with Nico Gonzalez set to sign from Barcelona, he would have a friendly face on arrival.

It’s going to be a key decision for the young right back, Porto and Feyenoord play at a higher level, but he will almost certainly be guaranteed more game time with Las Palmas or Osasuna.

The point of the loan is to enable him to play and improve his game, and to offer an evaluation for Xavi and the management team on his future in Catalonia.