In a bid to avert another episode reminiscent of the infamous Luis Figo saga, Barcelona president Joan Laporta is reportedly engaged in negotiations with Liverpool regarding the potential transfer of centre-back Ronald Araujo, allegedly valued at £35 million.
Liverpool, fresh from a successful Premier League triumph under manager Arne Slot, have been active in the transfer market this summer, onboarding players such as Florian Wirtz, Jeremie Frimpong, Milos Kerkez, and Hugo Ekitike. However, with desires for further reinforcements, particularly in defence, the Reds are said to be contemplating a bid for Barcelona’s Araujo.
The conversation around Araujo’s future arises amidst broader transfer discussions at Liverpool, where the addition of another centre-back to rival Ibrahima Konate and veteran Virgil van Dijk is on the agenda. The Merseyside club has also been linked with other potential defensive targets, including Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi, with interest steadily fuelled by speculation over possible moves by competitors such as Tottenham.
Spanish outlet Defensa Central brings to light Barcelona’s strategic considerations, with Laporta keen to ensure Araujo does not follow a route to arch-rivals Real Madrid, paralleling Figo’s controversial move in 2000. This scenario has put clubs like Liverpool in the spotlight as Barcelona contemplates options outside of La Liga for the Uruguayan defender.
Laporta, acknowledging the implications of such a transfer, expressed his intent to circumvent any painful departures. He remarked, “A departure like Araújo’s? We’ll try to avoid painful departures. Selling key players would make the team lose the spirit that has captivated the Barcelona fans.”
The unfolding transfer narrative suggests a pivotal decision ahead for Barca, as they balance financial considerations and squad harmony with the potential allure of a lucrative Premier League bid.
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