Benfica’s Tomas Araujo on Chelsea’s shortlist for centre-back

Chelsea have shortlisted Benfica defender Tomas Araujo in the event of a centre-back leaving in the final days of the transfer window, according to Fabrizio Romano.

The Blues are set to close the transfer window in a hurry as they are still looking for a new striker, while also having to part ways with a number of players.

It is believed that seven players could leave the club before Friday’s deadline, but Chelsea face a race against time to find solutions.

Araujo on Chelsea’s shortlist

The Blues are only expected to add a striker if they make further additions to the squad, but it now appears Chelsea will be looking for a defender if a centre-back leaves.

Romano reported that Chelsea have Araujo on their shortlist from Benfica, with Paris Saint Germain also reportedly interested in him if Milan Skriniar leaves for Al-Nassr.

He went to X.com and said:

“Chelsea have Tomás Araujo on their shortlist in case a defender leaves in the final days. There is no offer yet, but Araujo is really appreciated, according to CNN Portugal. Paris Saint-Germain want Araujo in case Milan Škriniar accepts Al Nassr’s offer.”

?? Chelsea have Tomás Araujo on their shortlist in case a defender leaves in the final days.

No offer has been made yet, but Araujo is highly regarded, according to CNN Portugal.

Paris Saint-Germain wants Araujo in case Milan Škriniar accepts Al Nassr’s offer. photo.twitter.com/fPv2X5BHOo

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 28, 2024

Araujo came through the ranks at Benfica and the 22-year-old, who can also play as a right back, made 27 appearances for the Portuguese giants.

If the Blues want to make a last minute move, Axel Disasi and/or Trevoh Chalobah will have to leave the club within 24-48 hours. That seems unlikely.

Chelsea have been trying to find a solution for Chalobah all summer after he was dropped from the first team, but they appear to have gotten no closer to a resolution.

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Disasi only joined from AS Monaco last summer, but it seems he is not a major player in Maresca’s plans, and the Frenchman has not yet featured in the first two Premier League games.

Newcastle are believed to be interested in the 26-year-old, but their priority is Marc Guehi and it is currently unclear whether there are any other suitors for Disasi.