Liverpool ready to make Ronald Araujo deal permanent in January transfer window

Liverpool are fourth in the Premier League standings eight matches into the campaign and are among the favourites to secure a top five finish in May next year, which would guarantee them a Champions League spot in 2027/28.

With limited resources, particularly in defence and midfield, Andoni Iraola has managed to churn out the results and it is expected that the Reds will back their new manager in the transfer windows next year, starting from January.

Juan Jesus has reported that Liverpool’s first bit of business for the winter would be to permanently sign Ronald Araujo from Barcelona, with conversations between the English and Catalan giants likely to commence once the transfer window opens.

For now, Araujo is on loan at Anfield but an impressive start to life means Liverpool are keen on having him stay at the club beyond this season. They have a non-obligatory purchase option worth £47 million for the defender, which they plan to exercise.

Araujo an excellent signing for Liverpool

Ronald Araujo’s form at Barcelona was frequently questioned, but there is no denying the positive impact he has had on Liverpool since joining them earlier this year. His utility at centre back as well as at right back has been especially crucial.

Araujo’s permanent purchase is a fabulous proposition for Liverpool. With Jeremie Frimpong underperforming at right back and Conor Bradley still injured, the Uruguayan is doing brilliantly at full back – which is likely to be his role in the medium term.

In the slightly longer run and possibly when Virgil van Dijk is no longer at the club, Araujo’s leadership and experience will hold him in good stead in central defence for Liverpool, while his tackling, aerial and physical prowess and passing are strong suits too.

Barcelona are likely to let Araujo leave permanently despite his good form as they look to balance their books, whereas the emergence of Gerard Martin and Xavi Espart this season could render the 27-year-old surplus to requirements at Camp Nou.