As Andoni Iraola prepares for his Anfield debut, Liverpool have made a surprise splash in the transfer market
Head coach Andoni Iraola of Liverpool FC reacts during the second half of a preseason friendly against Leeds United at Soldier Field
Liverpool boss Andoni Iraola is preparing for his Anfield debut(Image: Getty)
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Liverpool's transfer window has been a relatively quiet one to date. But Andoni Iraola will soon have a new defender to work with if things go to plan.
The Basque is now at the Reds' helm but has been facing one glaring issue: a lack of defensive depth. Jeremy Jacquet was signed this summer, after his move from Rennes was sealed in January, but even with his arrival, Liverpool are still short at centre-back.
Virgil van Dijk was the only fit option for Iraola, with Jacquet nursing a shoulder injury. Ibrahima Konate's exit left a hole, but it appears to have been filled. Ronald Araujo is all set to sign on an initial one-year loan deal from Barcelona.
The Uruguayan will undergo a medical on Sunday and there are a few more small details regarding the move that have emerged. The ECHObrings you the latest transfer news out of Anfield.
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Ferran Torres to PSG boost
Liverpool are currently pursuing an ambitious approach for Paris Saint-Germain winger Bradley Barcola. Initial discussions have taken place with the Frenchman's representatives.
However, this deal is proving complex and threatens to become protracted. The Reds hold interest in Barcola, yet it is presently the disparity between both clubs' valuations that poses the problem. PSG are demanding £145m, which Liverpool refuse to pay.
An alternative option could be his team-mate, Ibrahim Mbaye. The 18-year-old Senegalese winger caught the eye at the World Cup and features on the Reds' watchlist. Nevertheless, Liverpool's prospects of securing one or both of these wide players could receive a lift following reports that Barcelona's Ferran Torres is seeking a transfer to the Parisian outfit.
Ferran Torres #7 of Spain celebrates with his medal after the team’s victory following during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Final match between Spain and Argentina at New York New Jersey Stadium
Torres wants to sign for PSG(Image: Getty)
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Araujo might not be the only assistance Barcelona provide Liverpool this window, as Marca reports negotiations are progressing for World Cup winner Torres, who has reportedly told the Catalan club he desires the PSG switch.
All personal terms have been finalised. Should his transfer be completed, it would heighten the chances of either Barcola, Mbaye, or both departing, presenting Liverpool with an opportunity to strike.
Ronald Araujo details
Liverpool's move for Araujo came rather unexpectedly, though reports from Spain suggest he has been monitored by the club for some time. Initially, it remained uncertain whether the arrangement included an option to purchase the defender following his one-year loan.
However, it has since been verified that the Reds do possess the option, not the obligation, to acquire Araujo once his loan period concludes. He would cost them €55million (£47.1m), according to reports.
Ronald Araujo of FC Barcelona applauds the fans after the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD4 match between Club Brugge KV and FC Barcelona
Araujo's medical will take place on Sunday(Image: Getty)
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A transfer schedule has also been established, with the 27-year-old defender expected to arrive in Liverpool on Sunday to undergo a medical examination before finalising his switch.
He was absent from the Barcelona squad that competed against both Nottingham Forest and Udinese on Saturday evening during a triangular tournament. Footage captured him departing Barcelona's training ground, where he expressed gratitude to supporters who came to see him off.