Liverpool transfer news: Reds eye move 'ideal candidate' to replace Ibrahima Konate

Liverpool are one of the clubs reportedly interested in signing Barcelona centre-back Ronald Araujo in the January transfer window.

The Reds were close to securing the signing of Marc Guehi from Crystal Palace in the summer transfer window, but a late move on the transfer deadline day collapsed.

The Premier League champions are short of options at the back after Giovanni Leoni picked up an ACL injury. Additionally, the Reds are concerned about the contract situation of Ibrahima Konate, who will become a free agent next summer unless he signs a new deal at Anfield.

While the Reds are expected to make a move for Guehi in January, they are also exploring several options elsewhere, and Araujo has emerged as a potential alternative.

Araujo - ideal candidate to replace Konate?

According to a report from Fichajes, Araujo is fighting to regain his place under Hansi Flick, and he has emerged as an 'ideal candidate' to replace Konate.

The 26-year-old has made over 180 appearances for the Catalan giants and has featured in five La Liga games this season, scoring one goal.

The Uruguayan international has a contract at Barcelona until 2031, but the Blaugrana would be open to selling him for around £43.5m, as they are facing financial pressure that could lead to the sale of key players.

Liverpool could face competition from Premier League rivals Arsenal and Chelsea for the former Boston River defender's signature, and all of these clubs are expected to make a move for the defender in the January window.

Marc Guehi more realistic target than Araujo for Liverpool

It has been reported that Guehi has apparently blamed Liverpool for his failed move to Anfield, and that he has set his heart on joining Real Madrid.

With his contract expiring next summer, the defender is bound to attract interest from top clubs across Europe. However, Liverpool retain interest in him, and Palace are reportedly expecting an offer from the Reds in January.

A proven Premier League defender with loads of international experience, Guehi could be available at a cut-price deal in January, and he is a more realistic target than Araujo or even Dayot Upamecano, who has been linked with a move recently.

Moreover, the Uruguayan defender remains an important player under Flick, and the club cannot afford to weaken the defence after seeing Inigo Martinez depart to Saudi Arabia.