Chelsea is preparing to make a strong entry in the race to sign Uruguayan defender Ronald Araujo, the star of Barcelona, during the upcoming summer transfer window, according to reports from Spanish media.

The newspaper "Fichajes" reported that Araujo will be available for 65 million euros, which is the buyout clause in his contract starting from next July, prompting major clubs like Chelsea, Bayern Munich, and Juventus to put him on their radar.

Araujo represents an ideal target for coach Enzo Maresca, who is looking to strengthen the defense amid the possibility of some players like Axel Disasi and Chalobah leaving during the summer transfer market.

Other reports have also linked Chelsea with a move for Bournemouth defender Deyon Hoysien, but it seems that the Blues' management is considering strong alternatives, including Araujo, who is currently one of the top defenders in Europe.

The Araujo deal could be an important step to strengthen Chelsea's backline, especially after a decline in defensive performance in recent seasons, and the value of the deal is considered reasonable compared to the player's capabilities and his experience in La Liga and the Champions League.