As the summer transfer window rolls on, Liverpool are still being linked with a large collection of top-class players. However, some links are worth monitoring more than others and that's where Barcelona defender Ronald Araujo comes in.
There is no secret that for all of the attacking talent at Anfield, the defense could still use an injection of overall quality.
The unique and challenging financial situation at Barcelona these days could provide the Reds with an opportunity to snatch a great player at a discounted rate.
Barca might have to sell their Vice-Captain
The seemingly constant financial strain that takes place at Barcelona these days has meant that some players have needed to be offloaded to maintain the books.
The 26-year old Araujo represents one of their more desirable assets as he is a strong leader, terrific defender and is just entering the prime of his career.
Per Defensa Central, Liverpool could be willing to make a move if the asking price of €40 million is an accurate portrayal of the situation. Arne Slot is said to be an admirer of the player as well.
Real Madrid also have an interest in the player, but it would be Barcelona's preference to not sell one of their key players to their bitter rivals, instead the idea of selling him abroad appeals to them greatly, which is where Liverpool can come in.
While they have been pursuing Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi, nothing has come to fruition at this juncture and a cut-rate transfer for a player of Araujo's caliber might be hard to ignore.
Liverpool have a need, and the funds
While Virgil van Dijk is as imperious as ever, the rest of his running mates are not as solid when all things are considered.
Ibrahima Konate would normally be a tremendous right-hand man but he is entering the final year of his contract with no known progress on a new deal and Real Madrid sniffing around as well.
Joe Gomez has been a terrific servant for the club, but injuries and loss of form means he probably should not be relied upon for 40 appearances for a top club. Beyond him, it gets even murkier with the likes of Andy Robertson being tried out centrally on occasion.
Guehi would be a great addition, but so to would Araujo who could become the heir apparent to VVD as he carries similar leadership qualities.
Liverpool also have the funds to spend some more this summer thanks to their great business model in recent years, so a move for the Uruguayan should the stars align is not at all out of the question.