SL Benfica are looking to tie down Manchester United defensive target Tomás Araújo to a new contract.
The Red Devils recently switched to a back three to suit Ruben Amorim’s 3-4-3 formation, and this has increased the need for centre backs in the squad.
16 year old Godwill Kukonki has recently been called up to the first team and made the squad versus Arsenal, as he has caught the eye and earned the praise of his new manager.
United have also been linked to new defenders as they still maintain interest in Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite, and they are reportedly keen on Sporting Lisbon defender Ousmane Diomande.
Amorim’s side is also said to be interested in signing Benfica’s Tomas Araujo to bolster his defensive unit.
The Old Trafford side may run into problems, however, as it is being reported by Maisfutebol that Benfica are keen to tie him down to a new deal.
With interest in the 22 year old building, Benfica “want to include another season in the young defender’s contract and also increase the release clause to €100 million.”
“The idea is to extend the young central defender’s contract for another season, from June 2028 to June 2029.”
Negotiations would also suggest that the centre back is in for a salary increase, although it is not specified by how much.
Araujo was reportedly of interest to Crystal Palace in the summer, but the Portuguese club rejected a €30 million offer for him.
He has made himself an undisputed starter in this campaign, playing 15 games in all competitions this season and has been described as “arguably the most complete centre back SL Benfica has produced in recent years.”
While Araujo adding one year to his contract and bumping up his release clause may not kill United’s interest in the player, it would certainly complicate any potential deal for this summer as the club struggles with PSR issues.
Alex Browne
Alex is a huge Manchester United fan, inspired by greats of his homeland such as George Best, Harry Gregg and Norman Whiteside. Proud owner of such niche shirts such as Kleberson, Eric Djemba-Djemba and Gary Neville. Grew up pretending to be Ruud van Nistelrooy and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer in the back garden, with little success.
