Liverpool sign Barcelona captain Ronald Araujo on loan for 2026-27

Barcelona have confirmed that defender Ronald Araujo will join Liverpool on loan until 30 June 2027.

The move was announced by Barcelona on Monday, with the club stating on its official account on X: “Ronald Araujo has moved to Liverpool on loan.”

The Spanish club added: “The club has reached an agreement with Liverpool for Araujo to go out on loan until 30 June 2027. All the best to you, Ronald!”

Liverpool also confirmed the deal, saying the Uruguay international would spend the 2026-27 season at Anfield, subject to a successful work permit application and completion of international clearance procedures.

The 27-year-old will wear the number 33 shirt after completing his move from Barcelona, where he made more than 200 La Liga appearances.

Araujo joined Barcelona in 2018 and has won three La Liga titles with the club, including last season’s championship. He was also appointed Barcelona captain earlier this year.

Speaking to Liverpool’s official website, Araujo said: “I can’t wait to get started. I’m very, very happy.”

He added: “I’m excited to be here at this great club with such a rich history. I’m excited to meet my team-mates, excited to start playing, and I have huge motivation and I’m really looking forward to getting going.”

Araujo said he believed the transfer represented the right decision at this stage of his career.

“I think this move was the perfect choice for me at this stage of my career,” he said. “I think it was a necessary step for me. And as soon as I heard of Liverpool’s interest, things started moving very, very quickly.”

He concluded: “As I said, I’m extremely happy to be here and excited to get started. I’m happy with the interest shown by the club, and this was the right move at the right time.”

The agreement means Araujo will leave Barcelona temporarily after several seasons as an important member of their defence. His arrival gives Liverpool a player with extensive experience in Spain’s top flight and at international level, although the transfer cannot be completed fully until the required work permit and international documentation have been approved.

Barcelona’s announcement confirmed the duration of the loan, while Liverpool’s statement set out the conditions attached to the move. The Uruguay international will now prepare to begin his spell with Liverpool for the 2026-27 campaign.