Liverpool are reportedly plotting a potential move for Barcelona defender, Ronald Araujo, this summer. It appears that Anfield is becoming a more likely destination for the Uruguay international, who may be given permission to leave Barca at the end of the current season.
Araujo is wanted by Liverpool owing to concerns about Virgil van Dijk’s future. According to Fichajes, the player is willing to consider their offer, and negotiations are anticipated to pick up pace soon.
“We are aware of Liverpool’s interest, and we will consider their offer,” a source close to the player revealed.
Barcelona are believed to have enough defensive depth to let Araujo leave, and he could be available for about €60 million. The future of Van Dijk remains uncertain, as he, Trent Alexander-Arnold, and Mohamed Salah are all on the verge of becoming free agents.
Manager Arne Slot has reportedly identified Araujo as the ideal candidate to replace the Liverpool captain if the Dutchman leaves at the end of the season. Araujo has excelled while at Barcelona, producing some impeccable performances since moving to the Camp Nou from Uruguayan side, Boston River, for a reported fee of €4.7 million in 2018.
The 26-year-old centre-back, who won the Laliga title in the 2022-23 season, has been plagued with injuries this campaign, which has subsequently limited him to playing just 14 matches in all competitions.
Araujo’s potential move to Liverpool could be a significant boost to the club’s defensive line, and fans will be eagerly waiting to see how the negotiations unfold.