Sporting director loves Liverpool first-XI star, watching him closely

One of Europe's top sporting directors has discussed one Liverpool star this week. But then, he is technically his player.

Ronaldo Araujo is on loan at Liverpool this season and he's made an impressive start to life at Anfield. Really, he's being used out of position but Andoni Iraola is clearly enjoying the extra security on the flank.

That was largely why Liverpool were happy to give up a foreign player spot to land Araujo, after all. He's experienced, top-level cover for both right-back and centre-back - two problem areas for this squad.

But the Uruguayan isn't a permanent signing. He's currently on loan from Barcelona and the Reds will only get him long-term if they trigger a €50m buy option in the contract.

That's a decision for later in the season, of course, and really not until next summer. It means, though, that Barcelona are watching closely.

Deco on Ronald Araujo

“I watched the Liverpool match yesterday,” Barcelona sporting director Deco told 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 Barca was spectacular. Sometimes, ideas don’t align. He is under contract with us; it’s still early days.”

And that's the key bit: it's still early days. Barcelona have enjoyed wonderful success with Araujo but there's no question that his level dipped over the last couple of seasons.

Liverpool plainly feel they can get him back to that point and quickly - something Barcelona will also hope for as it means they'll get €50m for him.

It promises to be one of the more interesting stories in Liverpool's season ahead of a major decision in the summer. Right now, things look good.

So let's see where they are come May.