The loan of Ronald Araujo at Liverpool was bound to be temporary. After six weeks of the 2026-27 campaign, the Uruguayan center back is in the limelight for the Reds, and the board in Anfield is trying to get their heads around how to keep him.
With his arrival as a Merseyside player this August, there were fears he would struggle physically in the Premier League. But instead, he has been simply outstanding. In his first seven games, Liverpool have not conceded a single goal while Araujo was on the pitch.
Manager Andoni Iraola has been deploying him both in his natural position of centre back and recently in the right back, where his ridiculous physicality has stifled some of the fiercest attackers in the league.
55 million lifeline for Deco and Laporta
And now we come to the interesting point for Barcelona. With the agreement of the deal, Deco inserted a non-mandatory 55 million euro purchase clause in the bargain.
It did not seem like a number that would ever have been in play at the time. However, given that Iraola has praised the physical and mental qualities of Araujo, and given that Liverpool is already talking internally about the possibility of bringing him permanently next June, that amount is now totally feasible.
It would be a godsend for Barcelona's finances. But do not forget what Ferran Olive said earlier this week in his plea for patience. Right now, Barcelona have only 3-4 million euro in Financial Fair Play margin.
Being able to net 55 million would completely change the outlook of their summer business in 2027.
The sticking point for FSG
The one thing that is holding this up is the ownership of Liverpool, Fenway Sports Group. They have always prided themselves on being able to get value from big name players, but purchasing Araujo would be practically the opposite of that.
Ronald Araujo will be 28 this March, so buying him for that amount would go against everything Fenway stands for.
Araujo will become a beloved figure in Anfield should he manage to stay at the peak of his game. Shutting down the Premier League's strikers, and operating as a reliable right back is something that can bring a ton of positive attention for the club.
If he recovers his true form, Barcelona will gladly welcome him back with open arms. Either he stays or leaves, I think we can all agree that Ronald Araujo will be a huge plus for the Blaugrana.
Add us as a preferred source on Google