Ronald Araujo transfer fee revealed as surprise loan move to Liverpool nears completion
The 27-year-old Uruguay international is expected to undergo a medical on Sunday, with the deal including an option to buy rather than an obligation
Liverpool are close to completing a season-long loan deal for Barcelona defender Ronald Araujo as new head coach Andoni Iraola looks to strengthen his defence.
Araujo can play at centre-back and right-back, addressing two areas of concern for Liverpool.
Virgil van Dijk is currently the only fit senior centre-back, with Joe Gomez injured, Jeremy Jacquet still recovering, Giovanni Leoni sidelined with an ACL injury and Ifeanyi Ndukwe ineligible.
At right-back, Conor Bradley remains out with a knee injury, while Jeremie Frimpong has also had fitness issues.
Ronald Araujo joined Barcelona from Boston River in 2019 and has made more than 200 appearances for the Spanish club. He has not been a regular starter in recent seasons and took a period away from the team earlier this year.
Liverpool’s move for Araujo comes as they continue to strengthen their squad ahead of the Premier League opener against Newcastle United on August 23.
According to the Liverpool Echo, Liverpool have an option, rather than an obligation, to purchase Ronald Araujo as part of the one-year loan deal from Barcelona, which is close to completion.
Reports in Spain claim the Reds would have to pay £47.1million (€55million) to sign the defender permanently, although this figure remains unconfirmed.
Read more: Ronald Araujo set to undergo Liverpool medical ahead of surprised loan move
