Liverpool have a genius fix at right-back, and it's not Ronald Araujo

Ronald Araujo's Liverpool future is still up in the air.

The right-back is currently on a season-long loan with the Anfield outfit and, even though they have a €55 million option to buy, it's unclear whether the Reds believe he's worth that much or not.

Of course, the fact that he's their starting right-back would make fans believe that he's going to become a Liverpool player permanently and, judging by the way he's been received by them, they'd be extremely happy for that to happen.

But, as has been the case for a lot of the players recently linked with Liverpool, Araujo's injury history leaves an awful lot to be desired.

Indeed, he's manage to keep fit so far but, as the season progresses and he continues playing two 90 minute games per week, his body will be forced to the limit and may not be able to keep up.

So, just in case this does actually happen, back-up plans need to be in place and perhaps, the odd stroke of genius may also need to occur.

Alejandro Balde could be Liverpool's stroke of genius in defence

Recently, Alejandro Balde has found himself outside of FC Barcelona's starting XI.

Joao Cancelo, Gerard Martin and Xavi Espart have all been preferred by Hansi Flick this term and, since Balde is only 23 years old, he's far to young to be sitting on the sidelines.

He's been in and around Barcelona's first-team squad for at least five years now and, as time has passed, he's only got better.

The vast majority of his career has been spent as a left-back for the La Liga outfit but, back in the 2022-23 season, he was also used as a right-back.

And, while having a left-footed player as a right-back doesn't sit well with most people, there isn't really a more qualified and age-appropriate option for Liverpool to explore than the Spaniard.

The fact that Balde could only end up costing around £34 million is also a major selling point for the full-back compared to his Barcelona teammate.

Liverpool should throw whatever they need to at Barcelona to sign Alejandro Balde

Balde may not be the flashiest signing in the world but, it's one that would make sense for Liverpool.

Their defence is still not in the best shape and, since their full-backs are still not performing to the best standards possible, bringing a new one in could help turn things around at Anfield.

Obviously, adding Balde straight into Liverpool's starting XI would be a huge risk due to his lack of Premier League experience but, looking at his performances from last season and the statistics he managed put out, he'd be a solid acquisition for anyone.

Other options are obviously available to Liverpool but, of the lot, Balde makes the most sense.

Indeed, Joe Gomez could end up staying on and may end up earning a more regular role but, for now, splashing the £30 - £40 million that would be required to prise the left-back from the Camp Nou seems like a rather good option for them to explore.

That is, especially if they want to get back to their best as soon as possible.