Liverpool are making moves to secure the future of their defence as they look to replace veteran centre-back Virgil van Dijk, who is expected to depart the club next summer when his contract expires.
The English outfit is preparing to invest €115 million in a complete overhaul of their backline.
The first step in this significant investment is the permanent signing of Ronald Araújo from Barcelona, with the Uruguayan currently on loan at Anfield. The Merseysiders intend to activate the purchase option, provided he continues to perform at the high level he's shown so far this season.
Manager Andoni Iraola spoke highly of Araújo's contributions to the team.
Ronald needed this change, and he came in with a great attitude. He’s an experienced player from a big club, ready to play in various positions.
Araújo himself appears content with his situation at the club.
I think I’m finding what I needed here, which is to play, feel important, and show my football. It’s a bit early to talk about those things. I’m getting game time, which is what I want, and then we’ll see what happens in the future.
The second facet of Liverpool’s transfer strategy involves the potential return of Jarrell Kwanza. The club holds a buyback option for the 23-year-old defender from Bayer Leverkusen for €60 million.
With the contract of Joe Gomez also set to expire at the end of June, Liverpool may need to secure two new central defenders to bolster their squad.
