Liverpool and Chelsea were great spending in summer. (Photo of Michael Steele / Getty Images)
Liverpool and Chelsea spent a lot of money between them during the 2025 summer transfer window, but that could have been more. The two clubs were on the market for a new central defender who ultimately did not arrive, and in the end, they had similar targets.
Liverpool wanted to sign another central defender to compete with Ibrahima Konate and the new addition Geovanni Leoni to be the partner of Virgil Van Dijlk, and they almost brought Marc Guehi from Crystal Palace. Meanwhile, Chelsea came to the market after Levi Colwill has torn his ACL, but they also brought anyone.
Ronald Araujo rejected three premier League offers
And it has now been revealed that the two clubs were made of stone by Ronald Araujo. According to Sport (via football España), the defender of Barcelona received offers from Liverpool, Chelsea, Tottenham and Juventus, but he clearly indicated (via his representatives) that he did not intend to leave the Liga giants.
Araujo was interested in leaving Barcelona in January, but he finally embarked on a new five -year contract. Since then, he has established himself as an important actor, which could make the whole future decision difficult – although Liverpool and Chelsea have been ready to make another attempt in 2026.
There is no doubt that Liverpool and Chelsea will seek to sign at least one central defender each in 2026, perhaps from the January transfer window. Araujo can always be on their radar, and Barcelona can be open to offers if they continue to fight financially.
But even if this is the case, it will be difficult to continue Araujo from this decision, especially if there is a regular starter for Hansi Flick. As such, Liverpool and Chelsea can be forced to look elsewhere.
