Former Liverpool defender Dejan Lovren believes Ronald Araujo’s £47m release clause represents excellent value and says the Uruguay defender’s physical style makes him ideally suited to the Premier League.
Araujo joined Liverpool on a season-long loan and has quickly impressed with his versatility and aggressive approach. Lovren, speaking to Tribalfootball on behalf of Hajper, said the 27-year-old had adapted particularly well to English football.
“I think the Premier League suits Ronald Araujo more than La Liga. Because he is a physically dominant player, it’s a perfect match for him here,” Lovren said.
“I believe he will only get better, and who knows, maybe he will agree to stay permanently in the future.”
Lovren added that Liverpool would face competition for Araujo’s signature but argued that the club should consider making the move permanent.
“In the Premier League, Liverpool won’t be his only option, but Liverpool are smart enough to evaluate all options. He is only 27, quite young. Since he is playing so well, why not keep him?”
Asked whether he would activate the £47m clause, Lovren replied: “£47 million? Why not? It won’t be long before his value could rise to £80 million, so why not sign him now at this price and develop him into an even stronger, better player?”
“He is in his prime and can maintain a high level in top-flight football for another five or six years. So why not?”
Lovren also said Liverpool needed to plan for life after captain Virgil van Dijk.
“Everyone hopes Van Dijk can play until he’s 41 like Modric, but not everyone can be Modric. The day Van Dijk leaves Liverpool will come, and you need alternatives, you need a successor. You have to look at least five years ahead.”
Liverpool are fourth in the Premier League, nine points behind leaders and defending champions Arsenal, managed by Mikel Arteta. Andoni Iraola has endured a difficult beginning since replacing Arne Slot this summer, with the team still adapting to his methods.
The Reds have shown their potential in wins over Atletico Madrid, Brighton & Hove Albion, LASK Linz, Brentford and Villarreal, although inconsistent form and several unconvincing performances underline that the squad remains in transition.
Academy players Trey Nyoni and Rio Ngumoha have broken into the first team, while Araujo and 21-year-old Jeremy Jacquet have strengthened the defence. Jacquet arrived from Rennes in a £60m deal after Konate’s free transfer to Real Madrid and has formed a partnership with Van Dijk.
“Jeremy Jacquet surprised me,” Lovren said. “He had been playing in Ligue 1, and usually, it takes an adaptation period to transition from that league to the Premier League, but he really impressed me; it was a very positive surprise.”
“I also see him as a long-term solution for Liverpool. The team knew from the start that they had found a replacement for Konate, and he is so young, he will continue to learn.”
Jacquet was called up to the France squad this week, with manager Zidane aware of his defensive qualities.
Lovren said Liverpool should not be dismissed in the title race, despite Arsenal’s early advantage.
“It’s good to lead the Premier League early in the season, but it guarantees nothing,” he said. “What matters is how you finish. The last ten rounds truly decide the champion.”
“After the winter break, games are extremely dense, and I believe Liverpool are currently in a strong position, so don’t rule them out of the title race for now.”
Liverpool host Manchester United at Anfield after the international break and need three points to remain in contention.
