Liverpool’s first 2027 deal? €55m ace indicates he’s ready to complete transfer

10 Sept 2026 17:53 BST | 5 min read

Robin Bairner | Chief Editor

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Liverpool’s focus on signing attacking players has left manager Andoni Iraola short in midfield and defence, with work on these areas likely to be extensive next year.

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Alexis Mac Allister is poised to leave the club having not been offered a new contract, while the thorny full-back issues that have plagued Liverpool early in the season will also need to be resolved.

The performances of both Milos Kerkez and Jeremie Frimpong have both received serious attention, and indeed Iraola has already taken action to address the issue.

For Liverpool’s 2-1 Champions League victory against Atletico Madrid on Wednesday, the Basque manager axed Frimpong and instead threw in on-loan Barcelona defender Ronald Araujo.

It proved an inspired move as the Uruguayan set up Dominik Szoboszlai’s equalising goal prior to the break.

The Uruguayan was once described as one of the best centre-backs in the world by former Barcelona boss Xavi, yet it appears that he could have a future playing as a full-back for Liverpool – at least before Conor Bradley returns from injury.

And with Virgil van Dijk likely to leave at the end of the season, a pathway has opened up for the 27-year-old to remain long-term at Anfield in his more favoured role in the heart of the defence.

Current ETV

Ronald Araujo

D (C)

Liverpool

Ronald Araujo

D (C)

Liverpool

ETV Range

€20.5M - €25M

Araujo says he's loving life in Liverpool

A matter of weeks into his adventure at the Premier League club, Araujo has indicated that he is more than open to the possibility, having settled well in his new surroundings with his family.

“My adaptation has gone very well. My family and I are very happy,” he said in comments published by AS.

“I think the 'click' happened earlier, personally. Obviously, a change is always good, and I came to a big club, just as big as Barcelona, with very high expectations as well. I'm enjoying playing, and the results of my hard work will show.”

Even in a slightly different role to his usual central defensive position, Liverpool’s only summer defensive signing is happy,

“The manager gives me the confidence to play freely, to push forward. I'm happy. I’m not unfamiliar with playing right-back. I've played there many times, and the manager knows I can help anywhere,” he said.

And while leaving Camp Nou was naturally a source of disappointment, he retains an affinity for his former club.

“Leaving Barcelona went very smoothly. It was something we discussed with the club and the manager, and the truth is I have enormous affection for Barca. I'm grateful for everything, as the player I am today is largely thanks to them. We have a great relationship and I have a lot of respect for them,” he said.

© IMAGO - Ronald Araujo set up Liverpool's Champions League leveller against Atletico Madrid at Anfield

Liverpool’s €55m Araujo option

The early signs seem to suggest that Araujo will stay at Liverpool for the long term, though it is not certain.

While the player himself has indicated he is open to making the move to Anfield, the Reds will have to trigger a purchase option in his loan agreement for any move to be made permanent.

Iraola’s side have a €55 million purchase option in the deal they have struck with Barcelona, and Araujo is currently auditioning for a role. While Liverpool are likely to see him as a central defensive option in the long term, his ability to help them out on the right in a pinch is only aiding his case as he aims to continue what has been a positive start at his new club.