Bournemouth has strengthened their defensive ranks by signing Mexican defender Julian Araujo from Barcelona in a deal worth a reported £8.5 million. The 23-year-old right-back, who has agreed to a five-year contract with the Premier League club, joins after a year at the Camp Nou, where he was unable to make a competitive appearance.
Araujo, born in California, started his professional career with LA Galaxy before making the move to Barcelona in 2023. He spent the previous season on loan at Las Palmas in Spain’s second division, gaining valuable experience. He is Bournemouth’s fifth signing since the end of last season as they look to make their mark in the Premier League.
Bournemouth’s Chief Executive Neill Blake expressed his delight at the acquisition, highlighting Araujo’s potential and the competitive nature of the transfer. “Julian is someone who we have tracked for a while now and we’re delighted to bring him to AFC Bournemouth,” Blake stated. “He’s a young player with high potential and we’re pleased to have beaten lots of competition for his signature.”
Araujo, who represented the United States at youth level before switching allegiances to Mexico in 2021, will be hoping to make an immediate impact at Bournemouth. Blake believes the club can help Araujo further develop his skills. “We believe that we have all the tools here for Julian to build on the quality he already has and we really look forward to welcoming him to Vitality Stadium,” Blake added.
Bournemouth will kick off their Premier League campaign against Nottingham Forest on Saturday. Araujo will be hoping to make his debut and help the Cherries achieve success in the top flight.
