Liverpool recruit Araujo on season-long loan to strengthen their backline

Liverpool have signed Uruguay centre-back Ronald Araujo on a season-long loan from Barcelona, with an option to buy and the ability to play right-back, as they bolster a defence that lost Ibrahima Konaté to Real Madrid. Araujo has made 200+ Barca appearances, won La Liga titles and Copa del Rey trophies, and was captain in January after the loan departure of Marc-Andre ter Stegen; his 2023-24 season was hindered by injuries and mental health struggles, including anxiety and depression. He has 27 Uruguay caps and was part of the World Cup squad but did not play. Liverpool’s campaign opens against Newcastle on August 23, with the club still managing injuries in defence alongside new signings and development players.