Liverpool are reportedly battling with Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur over a deal to sign Barcelona centre-back Ronald Araujo, as per a recent Spanish report.
Despite winning the Premier League title last term, the Reds were forced to make wholesale changes to their squad this summer. Trent Alexander-Arnold and Luis Diaz decided to leave to join Real Madrid and Bayern Munich, respectively.
On the other hand, the Merseyside club suffered the Diogo Jota tragedy and allowed Darwin Núñez to move to Saudi Arabia. Following that, they decided to buy Alexander Isak and Hugo Ekitike. Moreover, Giorgi Mamardashvili, Jeremie Frimpong, Florian Wirtz, and Milos Kerkez joined during the last transfer window.
However, Liverpool have struggled to replicate their form from last season thus far. They have showcased defensive frailties during the first few games in the Premier League and Champions League.
Still, they managed to win the first six games thanks to the forwards’ clinical finishing before enduring three back-to-back defeats just before the international break.
Liverpool tried to bolster the back line by signing Marc Guehi this summer; however, Crystal Palace eventually blocked the move. He is set to be available for free next year, and other European giants have also started lining up to sign him.
Battle
So, it appears the Reds have started exploring alternative options if they eventually fail to sign the Englishman. As per a Spanish report (via ESPN), Liverpool hold a long-standing interest in Araujo and could make a concrete approach to buy him next year.
Arne Slot’s side aren’t the only club in this race as Juventus are also keen on him and are pushing to get the deal done. On the other hand, Chelsea and Tottenham held talks to enquire about the details of signing him this summer and could revive their interest next year.
Araujo wants to stay at Barcelona this season to win the Champions League title under Hansi Flick. He still has six years left in his current contract and is valued at around £30m by Transfermarkt, so the Blaugrana are unlikely to let him leave for cheap.
The Uruguayan is 6ft 3in tall, quick, strong, and good in the air, meaning he has the necessary physicality to flourish in the Premier League. However, he has the tendency to make rash decisions and high-profile errors.
Therefore, the South American might not be the best possible option for Liverpool, Chelsea, or Tottenham to bolster their defensive department.
