Liverpool are close to completing a season-long loan deal for Barcelona defender Ronald Araujo, with the move expected to be finalized in time for the Uruguayan to join the squad this weekend, according to BBC Sport.
The deal includes an option to buy the 27-year-old centre-back, who ended last season as Barcelona's club captain despite making only 11 league starts. Gerard Martin and Pau Cubarsi emerged as Barcelona's preferred central defensive pairing, which opened the door for Araujo to seek regular playing time elsewhere.
Araujo joined Barcelona from Uruguayan club Boston River in 2018 and has made more than 200 appearances for the Spanish club. He has been part of a Barcelona squad that won La Liga in three of the past four seasons. He remains under contract with the club until 2031.
Liverpool moved to strengthen their defence after losing Ibrahima Konate, who left on a free transfer to join Real Madrid. Araujo would slot into a backline that has needed reinforcement heading into the new season.
