Liverpool’s plans for their future defence continue to gather pace after encouraging performances from Ronald Araujo. The Barcelona loanee’s string of impressive starts at right-back has made him a key figure in Andoni Iraola’s setup at Anfield.
Although a natural centre-back, Araujo has thrived in the right-back position at Liverpool. With Jeremie Frimpong and Conor Bradley struggling with injuries, the Uruguayan has enjoyed extended regular game time, developing his stature at the club and in the Premier League.
After seeing Araujo claim the Player of the Match award in their latest Premier League win against Brighton, Liverpool have reportedly decided to open talks with Barcelona over the player’s permanent switch to Anfield.
Daily Mail’s Lewis Steele has told AnfieldIndex that the Merseyside giants are considering the possibility of negotiating a lower fee with Barcelona once the transfer window opens in January.
The Reds hold a £47 million option to make the move permanent at the end of the season, but they feel there is room for negotiation due to the player’s age. Liverpool’s reasoning is understandable as Araujo will turn 28 in March next year. Additionally, given Barcelona’s financial situation, Liverpool could secure a lower-fee agreement for the player who is quickly becoming a fan favourite at Anfield.
Meanwhile, Ronaldo Araujo’s impact has not been limited to on-field performances. The former Barcelona captain has established himself as one of the influential figures in the dressing room.
The influence was recently highlighted by highly-rated youngster Trey Nyoni, who explained how Araujo’s rise has inspired the group.
“I think Ronald has kind of inspired everyone to fight,” Nyoni told liverpoolfc.com. “Coming from where he was, he was a captain, so that in itself already shows how much of a leader he is. And I think even though obviously at the minute he doesn’t speak much English, on the pitch you can see that he’s willing to fight and willing to give everything.”
“When you see a player like that, I think it helps everyone else understand what it means to even just play here. So, I think it is important to have someone like him who’s got a lot of experience and can help everyone else.”
Nyoni’s comments offer a glimpse into why Liverpool are keen on extending Araujo’s stay beyond the season. While negotiating a lower fee with Barcelona will be a tough task for the sporting director, Julian Ward, the 27-year-old defender continues to make a compelling case for his permanent Anfield stay.
