Liverpool are closing in on the signing of Barcelona defender Ronald Araujo, with the 27-year-old set to undergo a medical on Sunday before completing a season-long loan deal that includes a reported £47.1 million buy option.
The move comes as new manager Andoni Iraola prepares for his first pre-season fixture at Anfield against Monaco. Only forward Victor Munoz had been signed this summer, with defender Jeremy Jacquet also linking up with the squad after his January move was finalised.
Araujo deal details
Spanish reports suggest Liverpool have monitored Araujo for some time, and the deal was sealed quickly. It has now been confirmed that the Reds hold the option, rather than the obligation, to buy the defender when his loan ends.
Araujo did not feature for Barcelona in their triangular tournament against Nottingham Forest and Udinese on Saturday. He was seen leaving the club's training facility and thanked supporters who came to say goodbye.
Barcola pursuit and Torres boost
Liverpool are also working on a major move for Paris Saint-Germain winger Bradley Barcola. Initial talks have taken place with his agents, but the deal is complex and could become protracted. PSG are demanding £145 million, a figure Liverpool refuse to meet.
An alternative target is PSG's Ibrahim Mbaye, the 18-year-old Senegalese winger who impressed at the World Cup and remains on Liverpool's shortlist.
However, Liverpool's chances of landing one or both players could be boosted by news that Barcelona's Ferran Torres wants to join PSG. According to Marca, negotiations are ongoing for the World Cup winner, and he has told Barcelona he wants the move. Personal terms have been agreed, and a transfer would increase the likelihood of Barcola or Mbaye leaving PSG, allowing Liverpool to strike.
