Ronald Araujo Gives Verdict on Making Liverpool Move Permanent

Ronald Araujo says it is too early to talk about making his Liverpool move permanent, as he prepares for Tuesday's Champions League game against Villarreal at Anfield.

The Uruguay defender was asked about the option at Monday's press conference. "It's very early to talk about these things," Araujo said. "I'm just trying to enjoy every day, continue to grow and develop every day to have that confidence. I'm really happy to be here, my family are also very happy. But it's a bit early to be talking about these things."

Liverpool signed him from Barcelona on a season-long loan in August, and he will stay at Anfield until June 30, 2027. He arrived with 213 appearances for Barcelona, who he joined from Boston River in 2018.

Araujo has settled in quickly. He made his debut at half-time in the pre-season win over Como, then came off the bench in the 2-2 draw at Newcastle on August 23. In September he was named Player of the Match, with an assist, in the Champions League win over Atletico Madrid.

He has mostly played at right-back, but moved to centre-back at LASK on October 14 and scored his first Liverpool goal, heading in a Konstantinos Tsimikas corner in a 6-3 win.

Head coach Andoni Iraola said in September that Araujo had arrived with humility and was ready to play wherever the team needed him. Araujo said Liverpool's size, structure and supporters surprised him, and that staff and fans welcomed him like any other player. He added that he knew right-back was a possibility when he joined.

Liverpool have won both of their Champions League games this season, beating Atletico Madrid and LASK.