Chelsea on the hunt for a new centre-back as Blues reignite transfer interest in Benfica star Tomas Araujo

Chelsea have signed a lot of players over the last three years but head coach Enzo Maresca still wants to add to his talented squad as he looks to restore the club's status as one of Europe's best. Fabrizio Romano suggests a central defender is a priority for the former Leicester boss, and O Jogo in Portugal reports Benfica's Araujo is on their shortlist. The 22-year-old has impressed in the 36 games he has played for the Portuguese club and as a result is drawing interest from the likes of the Blues.

Scoring goals has not been a problem for the Blues this season - only three teams have netted more than them. But having conceded 13 times in 11 games, it is no surprise to see rumours of signing a centre-back doing the rounds. The likes of Tosin Adarabioyo arrived to replace Thiago Silva in the summer but he has yet to provide any real competition to Levi Colwill and Wesley Fofana. Araujo's versatility and high ceiling would make him a shrewd signing if Chelsea are willing to pay Benfica's asking price.

Araujo was called up to the Portugal national team for the upcoming Nations League games following his brilliant form. The young defender will join Cristiano Ronaldo and Co. as they prepare to face Poland and Croatia.

Reports believe Benfica value Araujo very highly and a deal would not be easy to pull off. He is contracted at the club until 2028 and the more he impresses, the more likely it is that Chelsea would have to fork out a fee similar to what they paid for Enzo Fernandez.