Liverpool prepares a million-dollar offer for Araujo: Will he leave Barça?

Liverpool seems determined to go for Ronald Araujo this summer as part of its strategy to strengthen its defense. According to recent reports, the English club is willing to offer around 70 million euros for the Uruguayan center-back, a figure that could be attractive for FC Barcelona due to its financial problems and the depth of its squad in terms of defenders, especially if the arrival of Jonathan Tah is confirmed.

The 'reds' have shown interest in Araujo for several years, particularly as a potential long-term replacement for Virgil van Dijk, whose contract with the English club expires on June 30. Back in 2021 and 2022, outlets like 'El Nacional' and the network 'ESPN' pointed out that the Merseyside club, along with other Premier League teams like Manchester United and Chelsea, were monitoring the situation of the South American center-back, who at that time had a contract with Barça until 2023.

At that time, Liverpool reached out to the center-back and was willing to offer a significantly higher salary than what Barcelona could afford, almost double the 5 million euros net that the Catalan club was offering. However, Ronald preferred to extend his contract until 2026, reaffirming his commitment to the club where he is currently the third captain, behind Ter Stegen and Frenkie de Jong.

Liverpool returns for Ronald Araujo with a 'top' offer

This 2025, Liverpool's interest has intensified due to uncertainty surrounding Van Dijk's future. Portals like 'TeamTalk' and 'CaughtOffside' assert that if the Dutch international does not renew, Araujo will be considered a priority target due to his versatility (he can play as a center-back or right-back) and youth (he turned 26 in March).

In this regard, other English outlets claim that Liverpool is preparing an offer in the range of 60-70 million euros for the summer of 2025, beyond the recent renewal of the Barça center-back until 2031. Despite extending his contract, Ronald reserved the possibility of leaving for 65 'kilos' in the early days of the upcoming summer market, as long as a sufficiently interesting offer comes in to decide to leave Catalonia.

Araujo has total control over his future

Clearly, the 'red' interest is appealing for the player from Rivera, as he would arrive at Anfield to take on the leadership of a revamped defense. Trent Alexander-Arnold and Andrew Robertson are also expected to leave at the end of the 24-25 season, meaning Arne Slot will have to completely reconfigure his defense. In Barcelona, on the other hand, Ronald must continue to fight for a starting position head-to-head with Pau Cubarsí and Iñigo Martínez, in addition to the potential addition of Jonathan Tah.

The arrival of the German could be decisive in the final decision of the 'charrúa', who is also still a target for Juventus, which failed in its attempt to sign him in the last winter market. For now, the '4' culé remains focused on performing at his best with Hansi Flick's team, stepping up whenever the coaching staff needs him. Against Girona (90') and Atlético (32'), the Uruguayan was impeccable in defensive duties.

Other clubs interested in Ronald Araujo

Araujo has also attracted interest from other major European teams:

• Manchester United: The 'red devils' see Ronald as a solution to renew their defense and would be willing to match the €65 million offer.
• Juventus: The Italian club sees him as a key piece to strengthen their defense after Bremer's injury.
• Arsenal and Bayern Munich: Both clubs are interested in adding Araujo to their ranks to strengthen their respective defenses and compete at the highest European level.