Liverpool eye Barcelona defender as possible Virgil van Dijk replacement

Liverpool have reportedly lined up Barcelona’s Ronald Araujo as a potential replacement for Virgil van Dijk if the Liverpool star declines to renew his contract.

The Reds look to be preparing for life after the defender amid contract deadlock between the player and his representatives.

According to Relevo, Liverpool have been ‘linked’ with a move for Barca centre-back Araujo – despite him signing a new contract until 2031 in January.

This comes at a time when the 33-year-old Van Dijk is in the last few months of his Reds deal.

The report adds that Araujo’s new deal has a release clause that runs until July 15, with various outlets saying he could leave for a fee betwwen €65m and €75m.

Liverpool are reportedly considering Barcelona’s Ronald Araujo as Virgil van Dijk replacement (Image credit: Getty Images)

However, after that date, it ‘skyrockets to astronomical figures’. Time is running out for Van Dijk to extend his stay, else he will become a free agent this summer.

The report adds that there are high expectations of the Uruguayan playing at the Catalan club next season, even with Araujo’s lower release clause in his new contract.