Newcastle United interested in Benfica young defender Tomas Araújo

Newcastle United are reportedly interested in Benfica’s talented young defender Tomas Araújo as they seek to strengthen their backline during the January transfer window. The 22-year-old Portuguese centre-back has caught the eye of Newcastle’s scouting team as the club looks to bolster its defensive options for the second half of the season.

Araújo has been developing steadily at Benfica and is considered one of the rising stars in Portuguese football. Since making his senior debut for the club, he has played 36 games, scoring one goal and providing one assist. His performances highlight his composure, technical skill, and defensive capabilities, making him a potential long-term asset for Newcastle should a deal materialize.

The young defender has also gained valuable experience on the international stage. Araújo has represented Portugal at various levels, including 10 appearances for the Portugal U21 side. Recently, he earned his first cap for the Portugal senior national team, showcasing his growing reputation as a reliable and talented centre-back.

Newcastle’s interest in Araújo is part of a broader search for defensive reinforcements. The Magpies have been linked with Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi, who remains on their radar after a failed bid last summer. While Guehi continues to be a priority target, Araújo has emerged as a promising alternative who could bring youth and potential to Eddie Howe’s squad.

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Newcastle’s pursuit of defensive talent is driven by their ambition to maintain their strong position in the Premier League. Adding depth to their defense is crucial, particularly as they manage the demands of a busy fixture schedule.

One factor that could complicate any deal for Araújo is his long-term contract with Benfica, which runs until the summer of 2028. This puts the Portuguese club in a strong negotiating position, and Newcastle may need to table a significant offer to secure his services. However, the prospect of joining a Premier League club with Champions League ambitions might appeal to the young defender.

As January approaches, Newcastle United’s interest in Tomas Araújo signals their intent to plan for the future while addressing immediate defensive needs. While Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi remains a top target, Araújo presents an intriguing and potentially more attainable option. Whether Newcastle can navigate Benfica’s firm stance and secure the Portuguese defender remains to be seen, but his arrival could prove a smart investment for the club’s long-term goals.

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Should Newcastle United sign Tomas Araújo?

Bologna-born Giuseppe Bianchi has spent more than a decade living in Rome and writing about Italian football, Spanish football and the Premier League for various Italian football portals and now he writes about European football for Euro Football Rumours. He's been thinking about football transfers pretty much nonstop since the 1990 FIFA World Cup in Italy. Aside from writing, he likes to spend his time fishing and rock climbing.