Manchester United are reportedly interested in joining the race to sign a Benfica defender in 2025.
The Red Devils actively pursued a number of defenders during the summer transfer window and ultimately added three senior names to their ranks in that area of the pitch.
Noussair Mazraoui, Leny Yoro and Matthijs de Ligt were all brought to the club, yet United have since taken a change in direction with the appointment of Ruben Amorim as head coach.
Amorim has already heavily suggested that he has plans to adopt a three-man backline at Old Trafford having enjoyed success using the system at Sporting Lisbon.
As it stands, it remains to be seen whether that will suit United's current defensive options, who will have six weeks to make a suitable impression before the start of the January transfer window.
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Man United to join race for Araujo?
To generate substantial funds for the turn of the year, Amorim may first have to reduce the wage bill at the Theatre of Dreams, although it appears that club officials may be ready to deliver on a fresh face for the back.
According to O Jogo, Benfica Tomas Araujo has emerged as a potential target for the Premier League giants.
Since coming through the academy setup at Estadio da Luz, the 22-year-old has gone on to make 36 appearances for the Portuguese giants.
Eleven starts have been made in the Primeira Liga and Champions League during 2024-25, with Araujo featuring in wins over the likes of Atletico Madrid and Porto.
Araujo has a contract in place until 2027-28, while there is said to be release clause of €100m (£82.8m) present in his current terms.
Nevertheless, Benfica may be prepared to consider any suitable offers for the player, even having generated substantial funds through the sales of several players earlier this year.
Chelsea, Crystal Palace and Newcastle United have also been credited with an interest in a player who has represented Portugal at every level up to and including the Under-21s.
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Why would Amorim target Araujo?
Araujo only ever played twice against Amorim's old Sporting side, both of which came in games when he was on loan at Gil Vicente.
A clean sheet was kept in a goalless draw during the second half of the 2022-23 campaign, albeit that coming before Viktor Gyokeres joined Sporting.
Therefore, Amorim can only assess his performances for Benfica against other opposition. In this season's Primeira Liga, Benfica have only conceded five goals in eight games with Araujo in the side.
Darren Plant
