Ronald Araujo insists he is very happy at Barcelona amidst Liverpool interest
Speaking after Barcelona’s 1-0 win over Sevilla as quoted by Football London, Uruguayan centre-back Ronald Araujo has insisted that he is very happy at the Camp Nou despite interest from Liverpool.
The 23-year-old centre-back has been spectacular for the Catalan giants this season establishing himself in the heart of their defence. The two parties have been in negotiations over a new contract for some time now but they are yet to reach an agreement.
Araujo has a contract with Barcelona until 2023, and the club will do its best to keep its prized asset beyond that period. The centre-back is establishing himself as one of the biggest prospects in world football and it is not surprising that he has received interest from various top European clubs.
The central defender has made 33 appearances for the Blaugrana this season, even popping up with four goals during the time. The Uruguayan can also fill in at right-back if needed as he has already shown several times this season.
Speaking after Barcelona’s win last night, Araujo insisted that he was very happy at Barcelona and was hoping to reach an agreement with the club soon.
“I am very happy to be here. I am happy with the support of the people. We are working on the renewal. This week we have a meeting. I hope that it is resolved soon so that I can continue many years in this club. I want to stay here. Optimistic.”
A great prospect but difficult to sign?
It is obvious that the former Boston River man possesses a lot of talent and Liverpool will not be the only club planning to table a bid for his services. Araujo could develop into a world-class player in the future and signing him now would be cost-effective.
Having just signed Ibrahima Konate last summer, Liverpool now have four excellent centre-backs at their disposal. Virgil van Dijk, Joel Matip and Joe Gomez make up the numbers in defence and it is difficult to name a better roster in the Premier League.
It is difficult to see the 23-year-old break into the Reds XI at this moment in time. More so, while Araujo has all the attributes to succeed in the Premier League and become one of the best defenders in the world, he is injury prone.
The Reds may not want to lose out on such a huge talent, who could probably replace Virgil Van Dijk in the future, especially on a cut-price deal. But at 30, the Dutchman has years left in him.
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Meanwhile, Araujo is keen on staying on at the Camp Nou, making it difficult for the Reds to pursue the centre-back even if they wish to.
Araujo is probably a player who would be tailor-made for the Reds. However, it looks like he would be the perfect player that they never have.
