Liverpool blow as Romano delivers update on future of player Klopp reportedly wants

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Liverpool are reportedly keen on Barcelona defender Ronald Araujo ahead of the January window. But Fabrizio Romano has given an update, stating that Barcelona are “convinced” they will get him tied down on a new deal.

Araujo, 22, joined Barcelona in the summer of 2018 – but having broken into the senior side in the past couple of seasons, he has clocked up 57 appearances. Under Xavi, he is first choice on the right side of the defence.

Indeed, Xavi has now taken charge of six La Liga matches and Araujo has started the last five of those six. On Tuesday night, he scored Barcelona’s only goal as they drew with Sevilla 1-1. He has a contract until June 2023.

ESPN reported recently that Liverpool were battling Manchester United in the race to sign Araujo – with his contract situation and future up in the air. Now, Romano has given an update on the Uruguay international.

“In 2022, Barcelona are convinced they will be able to find an agreement with Araujo. In 2022. They are not at the final stages, like they are with Gavi. But they are optimistic for a new contract for Araujo,” Romano said, on his podcast.

Romano on Araujo: Did Liverpool really need Barcelona defender?

What Araujo offers is versatility as a right-back or a centre-back. Liverpool have Neco Williams as cover for Trent Alexander-Arnold, and Joe Gomez and Ibrahima Konate to replace Virgil van Dijk and Joel Matip.

But Wales ace Williams might feel he needs to join a team where he can get regular game time – and be first choice. Gomez is being linked with a move while Matip has now entered his thirties.

Araujo might have been a replacement for Gomez given he can play centre-back or right-back – or even a long-term solution for the ageing Gomez. It remains to be seen what kind of price might tempt Barcelona for Araujo.