Barcelona have recently reportedly told the likes of Chelsea that they want in excess of €100 million (£84.6m) for Ronald Araujo, and they should pay it according to reporter Iomie Stanley.

Maresca is the man that the Chelsea board feel can take the club forward after Mauricio Pochettino failed to impress as coach of the club last season – and the Italian will be backed in the transfer window.

Araujo has been a player that has been linked with a move to the Premier League for the last few seasons and he could once again be on the transfer market if Barcelona make a decision on his future.

While the centre-back has been linked with a move away – the 25-year-old has repeatedly stressed his desire to stay at the Catalan outfit.

Mundo Deportivo reports that Barcelona are standing firm over Araujo’s availability and will not consider selling the 25-year-old unless they receive a transfer fee above €100m (£84.6m).

‘Maresca will want players that are proven at the very top of the game and he will need the backing of the board if he is to get the players he feels could take the club forward in the coming season.

‘Araujo would be a great signing for the club that is for sure and would that would improve that Blues back-line – Chelsea should pay that £80 million for the defender.

‘They are wasting millions on talents – Araujo is proven – he is quality – he is the leader that could replace Thiago Silva.’