Liverpool tried for another defender ahead of Guehi this summer | OneFootball

Liverpool’s Defensive Dilemma: Why Araujo and Guehi Were Both on Slot’s Radar

Liverpool’s early-season campaign has been defined as much by what didn’t happen in the transfer market as by what has unfolded on the pitch. With defensive depth already a growing concern, the club’s inability to secure reinforcements at centre-back has become a focal point of discussion.

Despite strong efforts on deadline day, Liverpool missed out on signing Marc Guehi — a move that, in hindsight, could have eased the mounting pressure on Arne Slot’s defensive unit. Now, reports from Spain indicate that Guehi was not the only high-profile defender Liverpool had in their sights, with Barcelona’s Ronald Araujo also emerging as a serious target.

Liverpool’s Centre-Back Situation Grows More Concerning

Liverpool began the season with four recognised senior central defenders, but the situation deteriorated quickly. Giovanni Leoni’s long-term injury came just weeks after the club’s failed pursuit of Guehi, leaving Slot to manage a threadbare backline.

Ibrahima Konate’s inconsistent form has compounded the problem, while Joe Gomez — once a key part of the Reds’ defensive structure — appears to have fallen out of favour. It’s a situation that highlights both recruitment missteps and an element of misfortune.

While Virgil van Dijk remains a model of reliability, there is an increasing sense that Liverpool are walking a fine line defensively. The absence of an additional dependable centre-back could prove costly as the campaign wears on, especially with the team competing on multiple fronts.

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Liverpool’s Pursuit of Ronald Araujo

According to Sport in Spain, Liverpool explored the possibility of signing Ronald Araujo from Barcelona during the summer. The move, it’s claimed, was partly influenced by uncertainty surrounding Konate’s long-term future and contract negotiations.

Araujo, regarded as one of Europe’s most physically dominant defenders, was reportedly available for around £52 million due to a temporary reduction in his release clause. However, despite interest not only from Liverpool but also from Juventus, Tottenham and Chelsea, the Uruguayan made it clear he intended to remain at Barcelona.

The Reds’ interest in Araujo reflects Slot’s desire to build a defensive core capable of sustaining high-intensity football. Araujo’s blend of pace, aerial dominance and composure on the ball would have complemented Van Dijk perfectly, offering Liverpool a strong alternative should Konate’s struggles persist.

Weighing Araujo Against Guehi

Both Guehi and Araujo were identified for their reliability and ball-playing ability — key traits in Slot’s tactical setup. Guehi, however, was seen as the more attainable target due to his Premier League experience and adaptability to English football.

Liverpool’s failure to conclude that deal, whether due to valuation differences or timing issues, has been a costly one. With Leoni sidelined and Konate struggling, the gap in defensive depth is glaring. While Araujo would have been a marquee signing, Guehi’s consistency and leadership qualities made him an ideal fit for the Reds’ evolving backline.

January Options and Future Decisions

With the January transfer window on the horizon, Liverpool will likely reassess their defensive options. The club’s recruitment department has a record of acting decisively mid-season when necessary — as seen with the arrivals of Virgil van Dijk and Luis Díaz in previous years.

Araujo’s situation at Barcelona continues to draw attention, especially as he reportedly slips down the pecking order under Hansi Flick. But given his loyalty to the Catalan club, Liverpool may once again turn their attention elsewhere.

What’s clear is that the need for a long-term solution at centre-back remains urgent. Whether that means reigniting their interest in Guehi or targeting a new name entirely, Slot’s side cannot afford another window without action.