Barcelona's Deco admits he still loves Araujo as Liverpool eye £47m permanent deal

Barcelona sporting director Deco has publicly declared his admiration for Ronald Araujo following the Uruguayan defender’s standout performance in Liverpool’s victory over Atlético Madrid, while stopping short of indicating whether the club would look to bring him back from his season-long loan at Anfield.

Araujo, 27, joined Liverpool on a temporary basis in the final days of the summer transfer window, with the Reds holding a £47 million option to make the move permanent. He has already made four appearances for the club, completing the full 90 minutes in wins against Ipswich and Atlético Madrid.

“I watched the Liverpool match yesterday,” Deco told Spanish outlet Sport. “I love him. I’m fond of him and want him to succeed. Personally, I love him. At times, he hasn’t been able to play at his usual level. His time at Barça was spectacular. Sometimes, ideas don’t align. He is under contract with us; it’s still early days.”

The comments reflect the complexity of Araujo’s situation — still technically a Barcelona player, yet thriving under new surroundings at one of Europe’s other elite clubs.

Liverpool head coach Andoni Iraola has been equally effusive in his praise. “I think he’s been very, very good. The other day and I would say he’s been even better today,” Iraola said after the Atlético win. “He’s defending his side really well, and also sometimes, because he’s a centre-back, we underrate his offensive side. Today he gives a great assist to Dom Szoboszlai. I’m very happy with him.”

Iraola added that Araujo had arrived at Anfield with a clear point to prove. “He’s come with the willingness to show that he belongs at this level, and I hope we can keep him there, because he’s in a lovely place.”

Araujo himself has spoken warmly about his early weeks on Merseyside. “Liverpool is a big club like Barcelona. I’m working hard, as you can see also on the pitch. I am happy here and hungry for more,” he said. “I love playing in this stadium. It’s a very special and lovely place.”

With Deco’s comments suggesting Barcelona retain an emotional — if not yet contractual — claim on the defender, Liverpool’s decision on whether to trigger the purchase option at the end of the season looks set to be one of the more intriguing transfer storylines of the campaign.