Barcelona youngster's future remains unclear despite recent training call-up | Barca Universal

"Ronald Araujo seems to be a top option to return as a starting centre-back, now that Eric Garcia and Joao Cancelo will have to step into full-back roles after Jules Kounde and Alejandro Balde's injuries. However, the manager is keen on identifying options from the academy and Barca Atletic captain Alvaro Cortes has now emerged as an option."

"Cortes was called up to join the first-team training session earlier this week and is being considered as an option to reinforce the squad. He is currently the Barca Atletic captain and seen as a top talent, but his future remains uncertain, and how the current call-up goes may have a bearing on that decision both for the club and the player."

"Cortes' current contract with Barcelona runs out in the summer, and he will thus be a free agent in less than four months. The club, however, have an option to extend his deal for one year until 2027. As it stands, however, the player's entourage has not received any communication regarding the same, and it is unclear if Barcelona even have it on their mind to renew his deal."

Barcelona faces a defensive crisis with injuries to Jules Koundé and Alejandro Balde forcing Eric García and João Cancelo into full-back roles. Ronald Araújo is expected to return as a starting centre-back, but the manager is exploring academy options to strengthen the squad. Álvaro Cortés, captain of Barcelona Atletic, has been called up to first-team training and is being considered as a reinforcement. His contract expires in summer, making him a free agent in four months, though Barcelona holds an option to extend until 2027. No renewal communication has been made to Cortés' representatives. His performance in training and potential debut will significantly influence both the club's decision on his future and his own career planning.

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