Ronald Araujo is poised to become Liverpool's latest signing, with the Barcelona defender scheduled to undergo a medical on Sunday ahead of a season-long loan move that includes an option to buy. The 27-year-old Uruguay international is expected to address the Reds' centre-back depth concerns, with Virgil van Dijk currently their only fit senior player in that position.
Araujo loan details emerge
The ECHO understands the deal is near completion, with reports in Spain valuing the purchase option at £47.1 million (€55 million). Araujo, who can also operate at right-back, has been filmed leaving Barcelona's Ciutat Esportiva Joan Gamper training complex, with fans wishing him well. He will not travel with Barcelona's squad for their upcoming fixtures against Nottingham Forest and Udinese.
Reports from Spain suggest Araujo was told by Barcelona boss Hansi Flick that he would play a secondary role in defence this season, with Pau Cubarsi and others preferred. The defender then agreed to leave in search of regular football.
Barcola saga continues
Liverpool's pursuit of Paris Saint-Germain winger Bradley Barcola shows no sign of ending, with PSG holding firm on their £145 million valuation. Sky Sports report the French side ideally want to keep the 23-year-old despite signing Maghnes Akliouche and closing in on deals for Ferran Torres and Mika Godts. A significant gap remains between the clubs' valuations, with the fee potentially smashing the British transfer record of £125 million paid for Alexander Isak.
Meanwhile, Ibrahim Mbaye could be an alternative target, with reports from France claiming the 18-year-old was told by PSG manager Luis Enrique he would play no more than thirty matches this season, prompting him to seek a move. Arsenal have also been linked with Barcola, according to The Independent.
Iraola's first Anfield outing
Andoni Iraola will take charge of Liverpool at Anfield for the first time this afternoon as the Reds face Monaco in a 2.30pm friendly. The manager has already welcomed new signings Jeremy Jacquet and Victor Munoz, with more business expected.
In other news, highly-rated teenager Josh Abe scored on his under-21s debut in a 2-2 draw against Huddersfield Town, while Alexis Mac Allister will rejoin training on Monday after an extended break following Argentina's World Cup final loss to Spain.
