Inside MLS wonderkid's chaotic transfer to Barcelona after La Liga appeal

16 February 2023 , 18:59

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Julian Araujo has impressed in the MLS with LA Galaxy

Barcelona are finally set to complete the signing of LA Galaxy wondered Julian Araujo after he landed in Catalonia on Thursday.

Araujo was initially set to join the Spanish club in the January transfer window, but his deal collapsed. Barcelona field to complete the transfer for the right-back after filing the paperwork 18 seconds too late to pump the breaks on his dream move.

Despite the setback, Barcelona director of football Mateu Alemany insisted his club were still hopeful of signing Araujo. Now, however, a compromise has been secured and the Mexican has travelled to Spain to complete his $4million move after signing a contract until June 2026.

Araujo will not be registered to play for his new club this season, although he will get to grips with the reserve team first. The Barcelona reserves are currently coached by legend Rafa Marquez, who is excited to see what his compatriot can do before eventually stepping up to the first team.

“I’m delighted that he's coming,” Marquez told Relevo. “They've already been watching him since before I arrived. Now the situation has arisen and I'm delighted.

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“He's going to be with me for a while and then move on to the first team. Let him do a bit adjusting and I hope he has a nice career here.”

Julian Araujo has finally joined Barcelona after agonisingly missing out on a move to the Spanish giants in the January transfer window (Getty Images)

The signing of Araujo makes sense from Barcelona’s perspective, as they lack a natural right-back following the loan exit of Sergino Dest to AC Milan. The club have used centre back Jules Kounde in the position instead, which suggests Araujo will have the opportunity to break into the team and start for Xavi’s side next season.

Araujo made 102 total appearances in the MLS, while he also played in five US Open Cup matches and two CONCACAF League Cup contests. The 21-year-old has two goals and 14 assists in his time with the Galaxy and their second team - LA Galaxy II - who compete in the USL Championship.

Araujo may be in attendance this evening as Barcelona face Manchester United in the first leg of their Europa League knockout play-off tie at Camp Nou on Thursday.

Andrew Gamble