Liverpool nearing loan deal for Barcelona's Araujo

Liverpool are reportedly on the verge of completing a season-long loan move for Barcelona centre-back Ronald Araujo, 27, with the agreement said to include an option to buy him outright.

The Uruguay international is expected to link up with his new teammates as soon as this weekend.

Over the past four seasons, Araujo has helped Barcelona claim the La Liga title three times, and he served as club captain during the most recent campaign. Despite holding a contract until 2031, he started only 11 league matches last season, having been overtaken in the pecking order by centre-back pairing Gerard Martin and Pau Cubarsi.

Araujo joined Barcelona from Uruguayan side Boston River back in 2018 and has since made more than 200 appearances for the club.

The move comes as Liverpool look to bolster their defensive options following the departure of Ibrahima Konate, who left on a free transfer to join Real Madrid.