Liverpool are set for a busy end to the summer transfer window after agreeing a deal to sign Ronald Araujo from Barcelona. The centre-back is expected to join on loan until the end of the season to address the club's defensive injury crisis.
Araujo Loan and Defensive Crisis
Virgil van Dijk is currently the only fully fit centre-back at Liverpool, with Jeremy Jacquet, Joe Gomez, and Giovanni Leoni all sidelined. The Araujo deal reportedly includes a £47 million option, not an obligation, for Liverpool to make the move permanent next summer.
Winger Search to Replace Salah
The Reds are also looking to sign a new winger before the window closes to fill the void left by Mohamed Salah, who departed at the end of last season. Bradley Barcola continues to be linked with a move to Anfield, but he is not the only name on their radar.
Bradley Barcola
Barcola is reportedly still a top target for Liverpool, although a deal could cost as much as £127 million. However, PSG might be willing to lower their asking price if they secure Barcelona forward Ferran Torres. Torres has reportedly told Barcelona he wants to move to PSG this summer, which could free up Barcola to join Liverpool. The Reds may face competition from Arsenal for his signature.
Ibrahim Mbaye
Liverpool have also been linked with a move for Ibrahim Mbaye, who scored within two minutes during PSG's friendly against Manchester United this weekend. According to Caught Offside, contact has already been made with the player's agent, Jorge Mendes, regarding a potential switch to Anfield. It remains unclear whether PSG would be willing to lose both Mbaye and Barcola in the same window.
Cody Gakpo's Future
Cody Gakpo has been tentatively linked with a move away from Liverpool, with Tottenham reportedly interested. According to talkSPORT, the Reds will resist any bids for the Dutchman unless they sign two new wingers. A price tag of around £72 million has been placed on Gakpo, suggesting an exit could happen if Liverpool manage to land both Barcola and Mbaye. Any potential move for Gakpo is likely to depend on incoming transfers.
