Liverpool have completed the signing of defender Ronald Araujo from Barcelona on an initial loan with an option to buy for around £47.14m (€55m). The 27-year-old, who signed a new contract with Barca until 2031 last year, has taken a pay cut to facilitate the move. Liverpool are not paying a loan fee and will cover his salary for the season.

Araujo, who will wear the No 33 shirt, told Liverpoolfc.com: "I can't wait to get started... it was the right move at the right time." The Uruguay international adds to Andoni Iraola's defensive options following the departure of Ibrahima Konate to Real Madrid and fitness concerns over Jeremy Jacquet and Joe Gomez. With Virgil van Dijk as the only fully-fit senior centre-back, Araujo's arrival alleviates an injury headache.

Araujo started only 11 La Liga matches last season after an extended break to recover from depression. Barcelona boss Hansi Flick confirmed Araujo was not suited to his style, making the move beneficial for all parties. Liverpool hope Araujo can rediscover his best form in the Premier League.