Barcelona's Stronghold Defender Targeted in Liverpool's €60 Million Bid
Barcelona's centre-back Ronald Araujo is being targeted for negotiations by Liverpool, as the English club looks to bolster its defence this summer [1][3][5]. The Reds have expressed a keen interest in the Uruguayan international, with a formal €60 million bid reportedly in the works [2][5].
Liverpool's interest in Araujo comes after two rejected bids for Crystal Palace's Marc Guehi [1][3]. The Merseyside club's pursuit of a centre-back is due to ongoing injury problems with Joe Gomez and the approaching end of Virgil van Dijk's career at Anfield [4].
Barcelona president Joan Laporta has confirmed that Liverpool has been given the opportunity to negotiate for Araujo this summer [1][5]. However, as of now, no offer has been made that meets the €60 million release clause in Araujo's contract [1]. Araujo himself has expressed a desire to stay at Barcelona, but the ongoing negotiations could potentially change his mind [1][5].
Liverpool's renewed interest in Araujo could prompt Barcelona to reconsider their stance, especially given the urgency with which Liverpool wants to strengthen its defence [1][5]. The transfer saga remains active but unsettled as of mid-August 2025 [2][5].
Araujo, who has made over 150 appearances for Barcelona, scoring 10 goals and providing 7 assists, could be a significant addition to Liverpool's squad if the deal materializes [1]. The potential transfer could also be a major summer transfer story, especially considering the void left by Jarell Quansah's move to Bayer Leverkusen, which has left Liverpool with only three senior centre-backs [1].
Meanwhile, Liverpool's long-serving defender Virgil van Dijk is approaching the end of his career at Anfield, adding to the need for reinforcements in the defence [4]. The transfer market is abuzz with speculation, and only time will tell whether Araujo will be the one to fill the void for the Reds.
[1] The Guardian: Liverpool prepare €60m bid for Barcelona defender Ronald Araujo [2] Sky Sports: Liverpool eye Barcelona's Araujo as Guehi deal stalls [3] ESPN: Liverpool target Ronald Araujo as alternative to Marc Guehi [4] BBC Sport: Liverpool's defensive woes: The injury crisis at Anfield [5] The Athletic: Liverpool's pursuit of Ronald Araujo: What we know so far
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