Liverpool fans are excited, saying their first January transfer is already sorted after Atletico Madrid’s comeback.
Liverpool fans are already celebrating their first January signing after the Reds’ 2-1 comeback win against Atletico Madrid in the Champions League.
Atletico’s Marcos Llorente scored first, but Dominik Szoboszlai equalized just five minutes before half-time. Shortly after the break, Liverpool took the lead thanks to a stunning long-range shot from midfielder Alexis Mac Allister.
Supporters were especially impressed by Ronald Araujo, who is on a season-long loan from Barcelona with an option to buy. This was Araujo’s second game in a row after playing the full 90 minutes in Liverpool’s 2-0 win over Ipswich Town on Friday.
The Uruguay international helped set up Szoboszlai’s goal with a smart backheel and was solid defensively, calm and confident on the ball throughout. Normally a centre-back, Araujo is filling in at right-back due to injuries and poor form among other players.
Liverpool can make Araujo’s move permanent for €55 million (around £47 million), and fans are already convinced he’s worth it after his great showing at Anfield.
One fan wrote, “I expect the transfer for Araujo tomorrow morning.” Another said, “Ronald Araujo is going to be one of Liverpool’s best loan signings. I’m sure we’ll trigger his €47m clause next summer.”
Others called him “phenomenal” and urged the club to activate the deal right away. One excited fan even wrote, “Who is this player? Visca Barca, Visca Catalunya!”
Before the match, Spanish media reported that Liverpool are very happy with how Araujo has settled in. Barcelona’s manager Hansi Flick didn’t see him in his plans, but Liverpool’s head coach Andoni Iraola clearly does.
Reports say Liverpool’s club leaders agree signing Araujo on loan was smart, and they’re confident it will work out well. A permanent deal is definitely possible.
In his first interview as a Liverpool player, Araujo said he thinks his style fits perfectly with the Premier League. He added, “It’s a league I’ve wanted to play in for a long time. It’s very competitive and maybe the best league in the world, so I’m full of excitement and hope.”