THE FUSE

By Razeen Gutta

Players on the move: Join Razeen Gutta for a weekly roundup of all the biggest deals taking place around South Africa and Europe.

Liverpool have completed the signing of Barcelona captain Ronald Araujo on loan, while Manchester City are edging closer to losing Rodri to the Catalan giants.

Europe

Araujo has joined the Reds on a season-long loan, with Liverpool having an option to make the move permanent for £47 million (± R1 billion) once the spell concludes.

The Uruguayan defender arrives at Anfield with Liverpool dealing with a number of injuries in defence. His versatility will be welcomed by new boss Andoni Iraola, with the 27-year-old able to operate both at centre-back and right-back.

After losing a player to the Premier League, Barcelona could well be about to welcome an incoming as well.

Spain international Rodri has already agreed personal terms with the Catalans, who are now working with Manchester City to finalise a transfer fee.

As per multiple reports, Barcelona have improved their offer after City’s initial asking price was not met, with the midfielder now edging closer to the move.

Should Rodri leave, City already appear to have a replacement lined up.

Enzo Maresca’s side are closing in on an £85 million (± R1.8 billion) deal for Lille’s Ayyoub Bouaddi.

The 18-year-old Moroccan midfielder is viewed as one of world football’s brightest young talents and could become one of the most expensive teenagers in football history.

Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez could also be on City’s radar should they lose Rodri.

The Argentine has been linked with a move to the Etihad, with reports suggesting that Chelsea value Fernandez at around £120 million (± R2.6 billion).

Over in Spain, Tottenham defender Cristian Romero could be making the move to Atletico Madrid. According to Sky Sports‘ Luca Bendoni, both parties are in talks and making progress.

Spurs had previously rejected interest from rivals Arsenal but appear far more ready to negotiate with Atletico.

Meanwhile, Manchester United are keeping an eye on RB Leipzig left-back David Raum.

The German international has emerged as a potential target for the Red Devils as they look to strengthen at left-back.

Although no deal has been agreed at this stage, TEAMtalk believe the player is one who has for long been admired by United.

South Africa

Closer to home, Golden Arrows have completed the signing of Zimbabwe international Jonah Fabisch.

The 24-year-old midfielder joins Abafana Bes’thende ahead of the new season after leaving German side SV Meppen. The move was confirmed by the Durban-based club as they continue to strengthen their squad.

Meanwhile, Mamelodi Sundowns winger Thapelo Maseko is reportedly frustrated after the club turned down offers for his services.

The 22-year-old has attracted interest from both Egypt and Denmark, with Egyptian giants Al Ahly and Danish side FC Copenhagen among the clubs linked with a move.

According to The Citizen, Sundowns have rejected the approaches despite Maseko being keen on more regular first-team football.

The Bafana Bafana international is reportedly unhappy with his current situation, leaving his future one to watch as the transfer window continues.

Pictured above: Ronald Araujo

Source: @liverpoolfc