Summer brings many surprises in the transfer market. The possible interest from Liverpool in Ronald Araújo, a key defender for Barça, is generating a lot of discussion. Could the Uruguayan be the key that the English team needs to strengthen its defense? Let's analyze it.
Liverpool looks to strengthen its defense after an uncertain start
Liverpool didn't start the season on the right foot. In the Community Shield, it drew 2-2 against Crystal Palace and lost in the penalty shootout.
What worries the "reds" most is its defense, which conceded 11 goals in seven matches before the Premier. For a team that aims to compete for everything in the Premier League, Champions, and Cup, those numbers are not encouraging at all.
That's why coach Arne Slot wants a reliable defender. This is where Ronald Araújo comes in, who has been closely watched by Liverpool's coaching staff.
Konaté's possible departure opens the door for Araújo
The future of Ibrahima Konaté, Liverpool's French center-back, is uncertain. Real Madrid has him on its radar and could make an offer if he doesn't renew his contract, which ends next year. The "reds" are asking for at least €50 million for Konaté, but they could look for a replacement if he leaves.
In that scenario, Ronald Araújo appears as the perfect alternative. According to rumors, Liverpool could offer around €60 million to try to sign the Uruguayan in the final days of the market.
Will Barça agree to let Araújo go?
This is where things get complicated. Barcelona sees Ronald Araújo as one of its pillars. After renewing his contract until 2031 and with a release clause of one trillion euros (€1,000,000,000,000), the club is far from wanting to sell its star defender.
Although during the first weeks of the market the clause dropped to €65 million, Barça has no intention of negotiating. In addition, with the departure of Iñigo Martínez, Araújo returns to an undisputed starting role alongside Pau Cubarsí. Hansi Flick fully trusts him and has given him the captain's armband along with Frenkie de Jong.
Meanwhile, the Uruguayan is committed to the "culé" project and has no intention of seeking a change of scenery.
What will happen in the end?
Liverpool will probably look for other options, since Barça doesn't want to sell and Araújo doesn't seem to want to leave.
Araújo is already one of the most desired defenders in Europe, and his future could be the surprise that closes this market. Fans are watching closely, aware that any move could change the course of the season.