Robert Lewandowski and Ronald Araujo seen celebrating after scoring goal during LaLiga EA SPORTS game between teams of Real Oviedo and FC Barcelona, Barca at Carlos Tartiere Stadium Maciej Rogowski/Ball Raw Images Oviedo Carlos Tartiere Stadium Spain Copyright: xMaciejxRogowskix maciejrogowski_oviedobarcelona_2526-526
Liverpool’s defensive strategy didn’t work out this summer, despite the Reds spending £440+ in a single window. The Reds broke the British record for the most expensive footballer twice to reach those numbers.
Alexander Isak was signed from Newcastle United for £125m on deadline day. Florian Wirtz, on the other hand, saw a jump from the Bundesliga to the Premier League for £116m.
However, one of the most important pieces of the puzzle that Slot missed out on was Marc Guehi. Despite having completed his medicals for the Reds on deadline day in London, the English defender saw his employers pull the plug in the final hours.
Following the blunder, the Merseysiders were left with only four centre-back options. Among the four, only three are senior defenders with experience, as the fourth is 18-year-old Giovanni Leoni.
Having signed the teenager from Parma, Liverpool has high expectations of the defender. However, before taking his initial steps to wear Virgil van Dijk’s boots, he was injured in his debut against Southampton, prompting a worse depth crisis at Anfield.
Liverpool compete for Ronald Araujo
Following the injury, Arne Slot didn’t give any concrete plans regarding his transfer plans for 2026. The Dutchman prefers to wait it out and see how the situation develops before deciding on targets.
“That all depends on whether we get more injuries, yes or no, and if there’s a chance in the market – all the answers I always give.”
Despite his decision, it seems like at least one defender is missing at Anfield. With only three centre-backs holding the line, the Reds will be keen on a centre-back in the upcoming transfer market.
As previously reported, Liverpool have shown interest in FC Barcelona defender Ronald Araujo. The Uruguayan’s future in Spain is uncertain, and the Reds are scouting their options before making a decision.
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Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur are also interested
Giovanni Leoni will be out for a whole year before he can come back from his anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury sustained against Southampton.
However, Liverpool are not the sole suitors interested in Ronald Araujo. According to Caught Offside, Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur are keen players eyeing the defender.
The Blues have rated the Uruguayan at £52m as Enzo Maresca focuses on tightening the squad with further reinforcements. With his role in Spain uncertain, Araujo might be open to a move to arguably the best league in the world.
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