Ronald Araujo is reportedly open to joining Liverpool permanently, with the club holding a £47million option to buy the Barcelona defender next summer.
The 27-year-old has quickly become a favourite among supporters after just four appearances, while the feeling appears mutual.
Daily Mail journalist Lewis Steele reports that Araujo is “loving life” at Liverpool and “can already picture himself staying”.
“Araujo is loving playing for Liverpool and has been on several walks around the city, where he has got a feel for the place,” Steele said.
“He has noticed that everyone on Merseyside lives and breathes football in a way that is different even to Barcelona, and he believes there is a real smell of success around the place.
“This, above everything else, is something the player loves.”
Liverpool’s decision is unlikely to be made until later in the season, but Araujo’s versatility, leadership and experience could prove valuable.
Virgil van Dijk, 35, and Joe Gomez, 29, are both entering the final year of their contracts, while Liverpool’s other centre-back options are considerably younger.
Ronald Araujo has also already displaced Jeremie Frimpong at right-back, with Conor Bradley still recovering from injury.
His ability to cover both positions could make him an ideal bridge between Liverpool’s current defensive leaders and their emerging youngsters.
The Uruguay international still retains affection for Barcelona, but he is increasingly settling into life at Anfield and is even taking additional English classes.
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