Chelsea turn attention to Benfica’s star in £46m defensive shake-up after Dean Huijsen setback

Chelsea are prepared to invest in their backline and were leading the race to sign Bournemouth talent Huijsen, before Real Madrid entered and officially completed the transfer in a matter of days. In response to the setback, Chelsea have now reignited their interest in Benfica star Araujo, per a report from Chelsea News.

Araujo has been one of the pillars of Benfica under the coaching of Bruno Lage, impressing with his performances both domestically and in the Champions League. Last summer, it was reported that the Blues made an approach for the Portuguese centre-back. The 23-year-old has an €80 million (£68m) release clause, but apparently Chelsea bid nowhere near the amount Benfica demanded. However, sources told Chelsea News that the Premier League heavyweights will make a €50m-€55m offer for Araujo. PSG and Liverpool are also in the race for the defender, per the same sources.

Araujo is not the only player on Chelsea's radar. GOAL understands that the west Londoners are preparing a shock move for out-of-favour Madrid winger Rodrygo this summer. Formal talks between the two clubs are yet to take place, but Chelsea have already gotten in touch with the Brazilian's entourage.

Chelsea will next take on Nottingham Forest in a crucial top-five Premier League encounter on Sunday, May 25, before locking horns against Real Betis in the Conference League final on Wednesday, May 28.