Chelsea eye Benfica’s Araujo for defensive boost

Chelsea are reportedly eyeing Benfica’s 22-year-old centre-back Tomas Araujo as a potential defensive reinforcement for 2025, per O Jogo.

The Blues, enjoying a strong Premier League campaign under Enzo Maresca, are keen to maintain their defensive solidity while addressing potential future gaps in their back line.

Concerns over Axel Disasi’s possible departure, reportedly due to limited game time, have highlighted the need for defensive reinforcements, prompting Maresca to focus on bolstering the team’s back line.

The young Portuguese defender has impressed at Benfica, making 36 senior appearances and featuring prominently in both the Primeira Liga and the Champions League this season.

His standout performances against high-profile teams like Atletico Madrid and Porto have reportedly attracted interest from Chelsea and Crystal Palace, both of whom are said to have inquired about his availability.

Newcastle United are also said to be eyeing a move for Araujo, even with injured defenders Sven Botman and Jamaal Lascelles expected to return soon, as they look to strengthen their defensive depth and sustain their competitive edge.

Securing Araujo’s signature would require significant investment, as his Benfica contract runs until 2028 with an £83 million release clause. Despite generating over €140 million from player sales this past summer, reports indicate that Benfica could still consider offers below that figure.

Chelsea’s pursuit of Araujo reflects their ongoing focus on strengthening their defensive options, with journalist Fabrizio Romano confirming that the club is actively monitoring the centre-back market.

Romano revealed that Chelsea explored signing Araujo late in the previous transfer window, but Benfica were unwilling to negotiate a deal at the time.

Nevertheless, the Italian journalist suggested that Chelsea could revisit the possibility in January or next summer, highlighting their track record of triggering high release clauses, as they did with Enzo Fernandez earlier this year.

If Chelsea were to sign Araujo, he would likely compete with Wesley Fofana and Tosin Adarabioyo for the right-sided centre-back position.

Despite Araujo’s potential, questions remain about his readiness for a starting role, given his relatively limited top-flight experience with just 46 league appearances.

In addition to Araujo, Chelsea are reportedly exploring other options, including RB Leipzig’s Castello Lukeba, as they continue to reshape their defensive line for the future.