FC Barcelona have extended young talented defender Ronald Araujo’s contract until 2026 with a release clause of 1 billion euros, just like the club did with midfielder Pedri and forward Ansu Fati.

“FC Barcelona and the player Ronald Araujo have reached an agreement to renew his contract until 30 June 2026. The buyout clause stipulated is set at 1bn. The signing of the new contract will take place on Friday 29 April at 1.30pm CEST,” a club statement read.

The Uruguayan signed a contract with Barcelona B back in August 2018, and was promoted to the first team last season, where he became a regular starter, winning the Copa Del Rey with the Catalans. He was one of the lowest paid players in the team, and Barcelona had problems reaching an agreement due to an already inflated wage bill that the club was trying to reduce, adhering to La Liga’s strict financial rules.

The 23-year-old has made 39 appearances for Barca this season, and scored four goals, including the header in the 4-0 El Clasico win over Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu. He is a wall at the back for the Blaugrana. Last season, in La Liga, Araujo was not dribbled past by any player.

FC Barcelona are sitting in second place in La Liga, 15 points behind league leaders Real Madrid, with no chance of getting their hands on a trophy this season. The loss to Rayo Vallecano was Xavi’s third successive loss at home this season in all competitions.

FC Barcelona will face Mallorca, Betis, Celta de Vigo, Getafe, and Villarreal in the remaining five games of the season in La Liga.

FC Barcelona are also working on the renewal of 17-year-old La Masia midfielder Gavi, who has become a regular under manager Xavi Hernandez, and will be promoted to the first team with a new contract.