Ronald Araujo could block Barcelona teammate from joining Liverpool

Ronald Araujo is set to play a key role in whether Liverpool make a move to sign Jules Kounde, sources have told Football Insider.

The 27-year-old joined Andoni Iraola's side on loan from Barcelona during the summer transfer window,

Amid the Reds' ongoing struggles at right-back, the Uruguay international has been filling in there, and if he continues to impress it could impact their pursuit of a new option.

As I revealed on the latest edition of Football Insider's Transfer Insider podcast, Liverpool's interest in Kounde could hinge on whether or not Araujo's move is made permanent.

The France international is believed to be high on Iraola's list of targets if they decide to sign a new right-back, but the move could be blocked if they deem it unnecessary.

Whether or not Liverpool make a move to sign a new right-back will depend on Araujo's future, and should he continue to impress, Kounde's move could be blocked.

Could Liverpool make a move to sign Jules Kounde?

Football Insider revealed on 9 October that Liverpool are plotting a move to sign Kounde after he dropped out of Hansi Flick's starting XI at Barcelona in recent weeks.

The Reds are believed to be keeping a close eye on the right-back's situation, and could be tempted to make a move if they are made aware of his availability.

However, if they opt to make Araujo's move permanent after his displays at right-back, they could pull the plug on their pursuit of Kounde or any other targets in his position.

Speaking on the Transfer Insider podcast, I explained: "They've been using Ronald Araujo at right-back in recent weeks.

"To be fair to the Uruguayan, he has done really well there and made himself an important player under Andoni Iraola, so the need for a right-back isn't a priority right now.

"Come the summer window, the end of the season, Liverpool might look at that right back area depending on what they do with Araujo.

"But if they decide to make his loan move permanent, then it might mean they don't need to go after somebody like Jules Kounde, who is a potential target for them."

What do Liverpool have planned for Ronald Araujo?

Liverpool's pursuit of a new right-back could depend on whether or not they decide to make Araujo's stay permanent, after he has impressed on loan from Barcelona.

The 27-year-old has made seven appearances so far this season, and has started their last three Premier League games after impressing Iraola with his performances.

However, Football Insider revealed last month that Liverpool will not rush into triggering their purchase offer for Araujo and will wait until the end of the season before a decision is made.

The Reds can seal a permanent deal for the Barcelona loanee for £47million, but plan to assess his performances over the rest of his loan spell at Anfield.

However, sources say that if Araujo continues in this vein of form, then Liverpool would be willing to sign him on a permanent deal.