Van Dijk gives Araujo Verdict as Liverpool set to add Barcelona defender
Ronald Araujo’s imminent Liverpool move has received a major boost after Virgil van Dijk reportedly gave the Barcelona defender a glowing assessment to Andoni Iraola.
Liverpool are closing in on the arrival of Ronald Araujo from Barcelona, with the Uruguay international expected to undergo his medical on Sunday.
Multiple reports have emerged that Reds captain Virgil van Dijk has strongly endorsed the defender after manager Andoni Iraola sought his opinion on the 27-year-old.
According to journalist Diego Torres Romano, Van Dijk considers Araujo an exceptional ball-playing centre-back with outstanding pace.
Liverpool’s scouting department reportedly shares that enthusiasm, believing a fully fit version of the defender could command a valuation of around €120 million.
The proposed move is a season-long loan with Liverpool holding an option to make the transfer permanent for €55 million. The Guardian reports that the deal is designed to strengthen Iraola’s defence following injuries and departures.
Araujo’s arrival could provide valuable depth alongside Van Dijk, particularly with Jérémy Jacquet, Joe Gomez and Giovanni Leoni facing fitness concerns.
Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has confirmed the move, explaining that Araujo was informed he would not be a key player in his plans for the new campaign.
