Araujo joins Liverpool on season-long loan

Ronald Araujo is joining Liverpool on loan for one season. Barcelona and the English club have reached an agreement to bring the 27-year-old Uruguayan centre-back, as advanced by Fabrizio Romano and confirmed by Mundo Deportivo. Anfield will cover his full wages and holds a purchase option for the end of the campaign.

Both clubs and the player have approved the move, having been signed off by Barcelona sporting director Deco. Araujo's agents travelled to Liverpool this evening in a rapid operation completed within hours. The centre-back, who holds a contract with Barcelona until 2031 and preferred not to leave permanently, said goodbye to his teammates before they travel to Italy for pre-season.

Araujo sought regular playing time after a conversation with Hansi Flick, who confirmed his role would be secondary this season. Liverpool, short on defensive options, is betting on the Uruguayan, who will travel to England this weekend to sign. The Barcelona captain becomes the Reds' third signing of this transfer window.