Chelsea plot bid for top defensive target Tomas Araujo but Benfica refuse to sell centre-back with €80m release clause

According to A Bola, the 23-year-old is top of the London club's centre-back shortlist, but Benfica have no intention of negotiating. Araujo signed a contract extension in December 2023, which runs until 2029 and includes an €80 million (£68m/$86m) release clause. The Portuguese club are not open to selling below that figure.

Araujo made 28 league appearances for Benfica during the 2024-25 season, emerging as a regular under Bruno Lage. Although squad injuries cause a late-season shift at right-back, he is essentially a central defender and is considered a top prospect by several elite clubs. Chelsea are expected to revamp their defensive line this summer, while Arne Slot's Liverpool are also reported to be monitoring the Portuguese international after missing out on Dean Huijsen.

Araujo was the seventh most-used Benfica player in 2024-25 despite missing the end of the season due to injury issues. If he decides to stay then he will be expected to return in time for Benfica's Portuguese Super Cup clash against Sporting CP in early August.

Chelsea are likely to test Benfica's stance with a formal approach in the coming weeks. Should they fail to activate the €80m release clause, they could be compelled to focus on other targets. At the same time, Benfica has to deal with interest in Araujo while Nicolas Otamendi's contract is up for expiration on June 30.