Chelsea ‘smitten’ with £83 million star after initiating talks for a potential January transfer

Chelsea are highly interested in Tomas Araujo, who is currently a regular defender for Benfica, and are preparing a move for him to strengthen their back line.

Over the last few transfer windows, Chelsea have invested heavily in players they hoped would propel them back into Champions League and Premier League contention. However, despite their strong attacking lineup, defensive issues have emerged, leaving a leadership gap since Thiago Silva’s departure, a challenge Enzo Maresca is working to address.

The club has been linked to various top-level defenders, and now the Chelsea board seems set on a possible move for Araujo from Benfica.

Araujo, from Famalicao, has made a name as one of Portugal’s brightest young talents since joining Benfica’s first team, after developing through four Portuguese clubs before graduating from Benfica’s youth academy. Chelsea had considered a late move for him during the summer, though it ultimately didn’t materialize. Now, with uncertainty over the futures of Axel Disasi and Benoit Badiashile, the Blues remain interested.

Several Premier League clubs have contacted Benfica about a possible transfer for Araujo. While he shows great potential and could be a smart signing for Chelsea, he may still need a few seasons to fully adapt to Premier League q

uality.