Barcelona could lose Ronald Araujo permanently next summer, with Liverpool holding the option to sign the defender for €55 million, according to MARCA.
The Uruguay international joined Liverpool on loan after leaving Barcelona, but his performances at Anfield have reportedly convinced the Premier League club’s sporting department to seriously consider making the move permanent.
Under the terms of the agreement, Liverpool can activate a €55m purchase option at the end of the season. If they pay that amount and Araujo agrees to the move, Barcelona will have no power to prevent the transfer.
Araujo has impressed since arriving at Liverpool, where coach Andoni Iraola has given him confidence and helped him rediscover his best form.
Although he has featured more regularly at right-back than centre-back, the 27-year-old has made a positive impression defensively and contributed two goals in his opening months. His performances have also won over Liverpool supporters.
The report claims Liverpool would already be willing to sign him permanently, but the purchase option cannot be activated until the end of the campaign. The club are also expected to assess his form and fitness over the coming months before making a final decision.
Barcelona are searching for defensive reinforcements after Flick expressed concerns about the team’s performances at the back.
The Catalan club had considered signing a centre-back last summer, but Flick eventually decided against the move.
Araujo’s departure on loan subsequently left Barcelona with four senior centre-backs, a situation made more difficult by Andreas Christensen’s injury problems.
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