Liverpool have reportedly secured a surprise agreement with Barcelona to bring Uruguay international Ronald Araujo to Anfield on a season-long loan.
The move has emerged unexpectedly, with little indication beforehand that the Premier League champions were pursuing the Barcelona defender.
According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, negotiations have advanced to the final stage after both clubs reached a verbal understanding over the key terms of the deal.
Barcelona sporting director Deco has also reportedly approved the transfer, with the remaining paperwork expected to be completed within the next 24 hours.
Under the proposed agreement, Araujo will initially spend the season at Liverpool before the club decides whether to make his stay permanent.
Liverpool will have an option to purchase the defender at the end of the loan, but the clause is not compulsory.
That means the Reds can choose not to activate it, leaving Barcelona with a say in Araujo’s long-term future if Liverpool decide against signing him permanently.
