The unexpected transfer of Ronald Araujo from Barcelona to Liverpool has taken the football world by surprise, especially as it came seemingly out of nowhere.
Currently, the Uruguayan defender has traveled to England for medical examinations, with Liverpool prepared to cover his entire salary during this loan period.
Advertisement
While this move significantly aids Barcelona’s strategic plans, it does leave them needing to fill a gap in their squad. Deco and his team are actively exploring options in the market to address this need.
A Notable Target
As detailed by MARCA, one player that Deco and Hansi Flick highly regard is Aymeric Laporte, with whom the club has previously established contact.
Deco holds a high opinion of Laporte. (Photo by Aitor Alcalde/Getty Images)
Currently, there are no active discussions with the defender from the Spanish national team, as their only prior interaction was during the FIFA World Cup.
Advertisement
Despite this, Barcelona is keen to keep him on their radar, viewing him as a potential partner for Pau Cubarsi in central defense, especially considering their solid performance together for La Roja.
Deco’s Alternative Options
The Spanish media further report that Laporte is just one of many possibilities for Deco and Barcelona this summer, as the club possesses a comprehensive list of potential targets.
Who will partner Cubarsi next season? (Photo by Lars Baron/Getty Images)
Among those considered are Castello Lukeba, Cristian Romero, William Saliba, and Lucas Herrington, all of whom are being closely monitored this summer.
Advertisement
Moreover, Deco apparently has additional undisclosed options that may emerge if the need for new signings arises.
Currently, Barcelona’s top priorities include acquiring Rodri and Julian Alvarez. While reinforcing central defense is also crucial, substantial efforts on that front may commence once certain player departures are finalized.
Players such as Ferran Torres, Roony Bardghji, and Marc Casado are currently being linked with exits, and the fees generated from these potential sales could influence Barcelona’s transfer targets.