Former Liverpool defender Steve Nicol has described the club’s decision to sign Ronald Araujo on loan from Barcelona as “desperate”.
The Uruguay international completed his move to Liverpool earlier this week, after manager Andoni Iraola had repeatedly stressed the need to strengthen the squad in key areas, including defence.
Liverpool acted quickly after Barcelona made Araujo available. The agreement allows the club to sign him permanently next summer for about $63m (£47m) if the arrangement proves successful, although the purchase clause is not compulsory.
The deal appears to carry limited financial risk, while Araujo can operate at both centre-back and right-back – two positions where Liverpool are currently short of options. Nicol, however, believes the move highlights the club’s difficult position rather than representing a clear statement of intent.
“Ultimately, it shows how desperate Liverpool are right now – the fact that they’ve taken him on loan tells you how desperate they are,” Nicol said on ESPN.
“Ronald Araujo in his prime, absolutely fine. He hasn’t been in his prime for a long, long time. Right now, he’s not getting a game for any team.”
Nicol also questioned Araujo’s recent international involvement, adding: “I think he got one minute in the FIFA World Cup for Uruguay, so yeah… forgive me for not being overly optimistic.”
Araujo was highly regarded during the early part of his career, but his position at Barcelona has weakened. He missed time last season after a number of high-profile errors and has since fallen down the pecking order.
The 26-year-old struck a more positive tone when discussing his move to Liverpool, saying the transfer had been completed with little delay.
“Honestly, it all happened very quickly. Many thanks to Liverpool for making the whole process so quick, and thanks to them for contacting me and expressing interest.”
Araujo said he had spoken with the sporting director and head coach before agreeing to join.
“I’ve spoken to the sporting director and the head coach. I didn’t hesitate for a second to come here. It’s a great club, a great institution, and for me, it’s also a great opportunity to enjoy football here.”
He added that he was eager to begin training and playing for his new club.
“I can’t wait to get on the field and start enjoying the game. Like I said, the motivation is always there. I feel this is the ideal choice for this stage of my career and a decision I had to make.”
Araujo said Liverpool’s interest had immediately convinced him that the move was right.
“As soon as I heard about Liverpool’s interest, everything moved quickly. As I said, I’m very happy to be here and look forward to starting a new life. I’m happy to be noticed; it’s the right choice at the right time.”
