Liverpool complete signing of Barcelona defender Ronald Araujo on loan
Liverpool have strengthened their defensive options with the signing of Ronald Araujo on a season-long loan from Barcelona. The 27-year-old Uruguay international brings versatility to Arne Slot’s squad, capable of operating at centre-back while also providing cover at right-back.
Araujo leaves Barcelona having made 213 appearances for the Catalan giants, contributing 14 goals and seven assists. He has also earned 27 caps for Uruguay, scoring once.
“We have agreed a deal to sign Ronald Araujo on loan from FC Barcelona for the 2026-27 season, subject to a successful work permit application and international clearance,” read the statement from Liverpool.
Araujo has lifted three La Liga titles since arriving at Barcelona in 2018, with the latest coming last season. He was also handed the captain’s armband earlier this year.
WHAT ARAUJO SAID ABOUT HIS MOVE
The Uruguayan defender said he was excited for the move and feels it is the ideal one for him at this stage of his career.
“I can’t wait to get started. I’m very, very happy,” said Araujo.
“I’m excited to be here at this massive club with lots of history. I’m excited to meet my teammates, excited to get started playing, and I’m very motivated and really up for getting going.”
“I think it was the ideal move for me at this stage in my career. I think it was a move that was necessary for me to take. As soon as I heard that interest from Liverpool, everything went into action really, really quickly.”
“As I say, I’m super-happy to be here and excited to get started. I’m glad about the interest and it was the right move at the right time.”
Araujo will wear the No.33 jersey for Liverpool.
His arrival provides Liverpool with added depth at the back as they continue to manage the long-term absences of Conor Bradley and Giovanni Leoni.
The agreement reportedly gives Liverpool the option to make Araujo’s move permanent for around £47 million, although the clause is not obligatory.
Araujo is Liverpool’s third signing of the summer, following Jeremy Jacquet and Victor Munoz.
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