Liverpool supporters have taken to Ronald Araujo in a big way, and it is becoming increasingly difficult to imagine the Uruguayan defender returning to Barcelona at the end of his loan spell.
What initially looked like an interesting temporary signing has turned into something much more significant for Andoni Iraola’s side.
Araujo has brought aggression, physicality, leadership and a winning mentality to Liverpool’s defence. He has also shown that he can do an excellent job at right-back, despite naturally being a centre-back.
Now, according to Liverpool journalist Lewis Steele, the club are open to making his move permanent if his impressive form continues.
And quite honestly, why wouldn’t they be?
Liverpool have every reason to keep Araujo
Steele has made an interesting point about the purchase option included in Araujo’s loan agreement.
Liverpool wouldn’t have negotiated that option if there wasn’t a possibility of making the move permanent.
The original agreement gives the Reds the opportunity to sign him for a reported £47 million, but Steele also suggests that Liverpool could negotiate a lower fee with Barcelona.
That could make a significant difference when the club come to make their decision.
There is no need to rush into anything, but if Araujo continues performing at this level, Liverpool would surely have to give serious consideration to keeping him at Anfield.
Should his age be a concern?
One argument being raised is that Liverpool don’t normally spend big money on players approaching their late twenties.
Araujo turns 28 in March, and that might not fit the usual transfer strategy of recruiting younger players with years of potential resale value.
But I don’t think age should automatically rule him out.
Just look at Virgil van Dijk. The Liverpool captain is still performing at the highest level at 35, demonstrating that the right player can remain an important part of a successful team well beyond the age of 30.
I’m not suggesting Araujo will necessarily have the same longevity, but Liverpool need to look at what he can offer the team rather than simply focusing on his date of birth.
There is a difference between signing an ageing player whose best years are behind him and signing someone who is approaching his peak and already proving his worth.
Araujo belongs in the latter conversation.
He gives Iraola something Liverpool have been missing
What I particularly like about Araujo is his attitude.
He doesn’t appear to be frightened of a physical battle, he attacks the ball aggressively and he gives Liverpool an imposing presence in both penalty areas.
His performances at right-back have been especially encouraging. He has adapted to a position that isn’t necessarily his natural role and has given Iraola another option without sacrificing the defensive strength of the team.
Liverpool have needed more leadership and authority at the back, and Araujo has brought both.
He also offers valuable versatility. He can play centrally or at right-back, which could be extremely important over a long season when injuries and suspensions inevitably become an issue.
Those qualities shouldn’t be underestimated.
Liverpool must get the deal right
The financial side is obviously important.
A reported £47m purchase option is a substantial investment, and Liverpool should make sure they are getting the right value for their money.
However, if Steele is correct that the club could negotiate the fee down with Barcelona, that would make a permanent transfer even more attractive.
There is still a long way to go before anything is agreed, and Araujo needs to maintain his performances throughout the campaign.
But the early signs are extremely encouraging.
My verdict: Make Araujo a Liverpool player permanently
I’m already a big fan of what Araujo has brought to this Liverpool side.
He has the mentality, physical presence and experience that I want to see in a Liverpool defender. More importantly, he looks like someone who genuinely wants to be at Anfield and is enjoying playing for the club.
Liverpool shouldn’t allow a transfer strategy based purely on age to get in the way of signing the right player.
If he continues in this form, I’d be delighted to see the club make his loan move permanent.
And if they can negotiate a better fee with Barcelona, even better.
Liverpool have found a defender who looks right at home at Anfield. I’d rather see them keep him than start searching for someone else to do the same job.
Jamie – (The Kopite View)
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