LA Galaxy right-back Julian Araujo has missed out on a dream move to Barcelona after missing the relevant paperwork.
The 21-year-old Araujo looked set to head to Camp Nou in the final hours of the European winter transfer window, but FIFA has yet to greenlight the deal.
FIFA has investigated the transfer and indicated that it failed to meet the strict January 31st deadline.
Araujo was originally supposed to sign for Barcelona B, but was expected to be evaluated by Xavi Hernández during the first-team training sessions.
Barcelona sporting director Mateu Alemany said a computer error delayed the deadline for submitting the required documents by just 18 seconds.
“Due to a computer error, we were unable to arrive on time,” Alemany explains. “The system seems to have gone down, but it was only 18 seconds. We’ll have to wait and see what FIFA decides.”
Barcelona, who did not sign a deal in January, could return to Araujo during the summer transfer window and the player is still keen on a transfer.
This means Xavi’s side have failed to sign a replacement for Hector Bellerin, who joined Sporting Lisbon at the deadline.
However, they already have Jules Kunde and Sergi Roberto as options at right-back, with centre-back Ronald Araujo also available as a substitute.
Mexico international Julian Araujo has made one previous appearance for the US national team and is expected to start the new MLS season with the LA Galaxy.
Deeper
Q&A: Why Julian Araujo chose Mexico over America
(Photo: Getty Images)
