Liverpool brand new signing gets shirt number last worn by ex-Nigeria target a decade ago
Through official channels, Liverpool have confirmed the signing of Uruguay international Ronald Araújo on a season-long loan deal from La Liga giants Barcelona, subject to a successful work permit application and international clearance.
For the upcoming season, Araújo has been assigned the number 33 jersey at Liverpool.
The shirt number was last worn by former Nigeria Football Federation target Jordon Ibe a decade ago, during the 2015-16 season.
Since then, the number has remained vacant before being assigned to the club’s latest signing.
Ibe made 58 appearances for the Reds during his four-year association with the Anfield club before joining Bournemouth for a then club-record transfer fee of £15 million.
A year before his departure from Liverpool, Ibe was approached by former Nigeria coach Sunday Oliseh about representing the Super Eagles.
However, the winger declined the opportunity, saying he was prioritising a potential call-up to the England senior team.
At the time, the English-born forward had represented the Young Lions at U18, U19, U20 and U21 level.
Previous holders of Liverpool's number 33 shirt include Jonjo Shelvey, Sebastián Leto, Neil Mellor, Alan Navarro and Layton Maxwell.
Ifeanyi Emmanuel
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