Liverpool are reportedly nearing a loan agreement for Barcelona defender Ronald Araujo, a move that would provide crucial defensive reinforcements for the club. The Merseyside team is looking to finalise a loan with an option to buy the Uruguay international, with a medical examination reportedly scheduled for Sunday.
The 27-year-old, who previously captained Barcelona, is expected to be the second signing for manager Andoni Iraola at Anfield, following winger Victor Munoz. Araujo primarily plays as a central defender but can also operate at right-back, offering increased squad depth in both positions.
Defensive Reinforcements Needed at Anfield
The need for defensive additions at Liverpool has become apparent due to several player absences. Right-back Conor Bradley is expected to be out until November, and the versatile Joe Gomez sustained an injury during the first pre-season match. Another central defender, Giovanni Leoni, has not played since suffering a cruciate ligament injury on his debut last September. Furthermore, new signing Jeremy Jacquet was not included in matches during the pre-season tour of the United States because of fitness concerns.
These issues have left captain Virgil van Dijk as the only fully-fit senior centre-back for Liverpool. The club also recently saw the departure of Ibrahima Konate to Real Madrid, further highlighting the need for defensive depth. Araujo‘s arrival is anticipated to address these challenges, particularly given his ability to cover both central defence and right-back, positions where Liverpool has faced injury setbacks.
Araujo joined Barcelona B in 2018 and was promoted to the first team in 2019. He has since made 213 appearances for Barcelona. However, he reportedly lost his regular starting spot last season, with manager Hansi Flick preferring a central defensive partnership of Pau Cubarsi and Gerard Martin. Despite this, Araujo signed a new contract with Barcelona last year, extending his stay until 2031, and was named one of the club’s captains following Marc-Andre Ter Stegen‘s departure in January.
Transfer Market Activity and Future Plans
The transfer window has been described as frustrating for Liverpool, who are still seeking a high-level replacement for Mohamed Salah and have reportedly missed out on several targets. So far, Jeremy Jacquet and Victor Munoz have been the only first-team signings. The club is also reportedly in discussions to sign Paris Saint-Germain players Bradley Barcola and Ibrahim Mbaye to strengthen their wing positions, though reports indicate a significant valuation gap for Barcola, who Champions League holders value at £145m.
While addressing the wing department is a primary focus, the need for recruits in other areas, particularly centre-back, has been evident due to injuries and departures. The agreement for Araujo‘s loan deal was reportedly confirmed on Friday night, with verbal agreement between the clubs and approval from director Deco. The loan agreement is said to include a buy option clause, which is not mandatory for Liverpool. Barcelona has reportedly given its approval for the deal, with documents expected to be signed within 24 hours.
Reports suggest that Liverpool prioritised a centre-back signing over a new right-back for now, though the possibility of adding a right-back later in the transfer window has not been ruled out. Araujo‘s arrival in the UK is expected on Sunday to undergo his medical and finalise his temporary move to Liverpool.
Source: independent.co.uk