Uruguayan centre-back Ronald Araujo has joined Liverpool on a season-long loan from Barcelona, the Spanish champions announced on Monday. “FC Barcelona and Liverpool FC have agreed the loan of Ronald Araujo until June 30, 2027. Good luck, Ronald!” Barcelona wrote in a statement.
While Barcelona did not specify the financial details, the Spanish press reports that Liverpool will cover the player’s wages and hold an option to buy set at 55 million euros ($63.5 million). Araujo remains under contract with the Catalan club until 2031 following a 2025 renewal.
The 27-year-old had slipped down the pecking order under manager Hansi Flick, with young Spaniard Pau Cubarsi emerging as the primary pillar of the Barcelona defence. Last season, Araujo made only 35 appearances across all competitions, a campaign that included a brief hiatus due to mental exhaustion.
Upon his return in January, he found himself behind other defenders, including Eric García and Gerard Martín. Araujo, who was part of the Uruguay squad at the World Cup, now joins a Liverpool side in urgent need of a centre-back to partner Virgil van Dijk.
The move comes as Ibrahima Konate has departed for Real Madrid, while both Joe Gomez and Giovanni Leoni are currently sidelined with injuries. Liverpool, now managed by Andoni Iraola, have also bolstered their defensive options by signing young French defender Jeremy Jacquet from Rennes.
Reflecting on the transfer, Araujo stated, “I’m excited to be here at this massive club with lots of history. I’m excited to meet my team-mates, excited to get started playing, and I’m very motivated and really up for getting going.” He added that the move was ideal and necessary for his career at this stage.
Last season, Araujo played just 35 matches across all competitions, stepping away for a few weeks with mental exhaustion.
