Liverpool have made a steady, if unspectacular, start to life under Andoni Iraola, picking up one win and two draws from their opening three Premier League matches.
That means the Reds remain unbeaten, although their performances have not always been entirely convincing.
Still, Iraola has a solid platform to build on as he continues to put his own stamp on a squad that underwent significant change during the summer.
Several players arrived and departed during the transfer window, with even Mohamed Salah moving on as Liverpool began a new era.
One player who has quickly established himself as an important part of Iraola’s plans has now reportedly made a decision over his long-term future at Anfield.
Araujo makes decision on Liverpool future
Ronald Araujo has reportedly decided that he wants to remain at Liverpool beyond the current season, according to a report relayed by Football 365.
The Uruguay international joined the Reds from Barcelona on a season-long loan during the summer, giving Iraola an experienced and versatile defensive option.
Liverpool also have the opportunity to make the move permanent next summer for a reported £47.14 million. The deal is particularly attractive for the Reds as they did not pay a loan fee for Araujo and have instead taken responsibility for his full salary during his time at Anfield.
The defender is also understood to have accepted a reduction in wages to make the move happen.
Araujo has already shown his value to Iraola, with the 27-year-old capable of playing both at centre-back and right-back. He has made four appearances so far this season and has registered one assist.
His performances have clearly impressed the Liverpool boss, with Iraola praising the defender as “very, very good”.
Now, Araujo is reportedly keen to make his stay at Anfield a permanent one. With Liverpool holding an option to sign him next summer, the defender’s reported desire to remain on Merseyside could give the club another important decision to make at the end of the campaign.
If Araujo continues to perform at his current level, Liverpool could view the reported £47.14m fee as a worthwhile investment in a player Iraola already appears to trust.
