Julian Araujo’s proposed $4.35m transfer to Barcelona ‘DID NOT get completed in time’

Julian Araujo’s proposed move to Barcelona is hanging in the balance after the deal was reportedly not completed in time.

The LA Galaxy right-back looked set to make the move to La Liga before the end of the transfer deadline but is now sweating over his future after paperwork was submitted late, according to Fabrizio Romano and Mundo Deportivo.

According to Romano, the deal was completed mere seconds after the deadline closed, and the sides had agreed to a $4.35m fee for the player.

The deal was initially reported as a loan move, and Araujo is set to learn his fate on Wednesday as Barcelona consults with FIFA.

Araujo, just 21 years old, has been a consistent starter across the last two seasons for the Galaxy, totaling 62 starts in that span and 11 assists.

The California-born defender was named an MLS All-Star in both of those seasons as well.

Araujo has not been shy previously about his desire to play in Europe, saying in August, ‘I definitely want to go to Europe.’

‘It’s my dream, my goal is to go to Europe. I want to reach my highest potential and I feel like going to Europe is going to help me do that.’

Araujo celebrates his game winning goal during the MLS Cup Round of 16 match vs. Nashville

If Araujo’s move to Barcelona is completed, the young defender would be filling a void left by fellow right-back Hector Bellerin, as the former Arsenal defender moved to Sporting Lisbon on deadline day.

Araujo played at every youth level for the United States and eventually debuted for the full team in December 2020, but the friendly appearance did not cap tie him to the US.

He eventually made a one-time switch to represent Mexico – where his parents were born – in October 2021.

He’s made three appearances for Mexico thus far.