Arsenal consider making a bid to sign ‘tremendous’ centre-back on Chelsea’s shortlist, he’s open to leaving

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It’s clear from various transfer rumours that Chelsea are weighing up signing a new central defender.

The Chelsea squad looks pretty strong across the board right now, but there’s an argument to suggest they need a reinforcement in the backline.

In terms of the Blues centre-backs, Axel Disasi is available to leave Chelsea in January. Meanwhile, Wesley Fofana has just picked up another long-term injury, which may leave them a bit vulnerable at the back.

• READ MORE: Chelsea told it’s ‘not possible’ to sign Champions League centre-back in January who would be significant upgrade on Axel Disasi

Arsenal may bid for Chelsea target Ronald Araujo

Barcelona and Uruguay star Ronald Araujo, who’s a no-nonsense centre-half, is currently on the Blues shortlist

Chelsea are considering seven different centre-back profiles, including 25-year-old Barcelona defender Araujo. The latest developments suggest that Arsenal and Juventus are fighting hard for the La Liga man’s signature, though.

According to TEAMtalk, Premier League giants Arsenal could now launch an offer to sign Barcelona centre-back Araujo this month.

It is explained that the Gunners made contact earlier in January about a potential move and could step up their interest with a bid.

The report adds that Italians Juventus are also in the race for the Barcelona ace, while more suitors could yet join the hunt during a crucial few days for this transfer saga.

Araujo has told the Barcelona dressing room he’s thinking of leaving, plus that a move to the Premier League does appeal to him. Therefore, could we soon see the South American star joining a London club?

The perfect partner for Levi Colwill

Described as “tremendous” by Xavi Hernandez in 2023, Araujo can be one of the world’s top defenders when he’s fit and firing.

The one asterisk by his name is the fact that he’s had some poor luck with injuries in his career. For example, he’s only played once for Barcelona this season after missing the first half of the campaign with a hamstring problem.

If Araujo can stay fit, we think he’s the right profile to be a perfect centre-back partner for Levi Colwill at Chelsea. The Barcelona defender possesses the raw strength, pace and leadership that could suit playing next to a ball-playing centre-half like Colwill.

At the age of 21, Colwill would massively benefit from partnering with an authoritative figure in the mould of Araujo.