SL Benfica defender Tomas Araujo has emerged as a transfer target for Bayern Munich. The Bundesliga giants are reportedly expressing interest in the centre-back as part of a larger strategy to overhaul their defence ahead of the summer transfer window.

According to BILD journalist Christian Falk, Bayern Munich have tracked Araujo for several seasons and remain interested in the Portuguese international. However, any potential move for him will depend on the futures of the current centre-backs already at Die Roten.

“It is true; Bayern are looking to sign a centre-back in the next summer transfer window… There are so many concrete names at the moment. I have one I want to talk about, because he’s been on the list now for several seasons, and this is Tomas Araujo of Benfica,” Falk said, speaking to CFBayern Insider.

“He’s not so expensive and he’s 24 years old. He would be very interesting for Bayern and you could get him for about €35m-40m.”

The main stumbling block for a possible move would be Araujo’s contract with Benfica, which runs until 2031. His release clause is set at €80 million, though the Portuguese giants are reportedly asking for half that sum.

Tomas Araujo profile

Born on May 16, 2002, in Vila Nova de Famalicao, Tomas Araujo started his youth career with Operario Famalicao, Evolution Soccer Academy, and Palmeiras FC. He joined Benfica’s youth academy in 2016 at the age of 14.

Araujo signed his first professional contract with the Eagles in 2018 and made his professional debut for Benfica B in 2020. He continued to develop with the U-19 side, leading them to the UEFA Youth League 2021-22 title, marking Benfica’s first European trophy in 60 years.

Araujo made his senior debut in 2021 but struggled for first-team opportunities. He was sent on loan to Gil Vicente for the 2022-23 season and made 26 appearances, including 22 in the Portuguese Primeira Liga.

Primarily a centre-back and also capable of playing at right-back, Araujo’s breakthrough came under manager Bruno Lage in the 2024-25 season. He displaced Antonio Silva from the starting lineup, impressing with his versatility and his ability to play out from the back.

After being named the Primeira Liga Defender of the Month for November 2024, Araujo made his senior debut for Portugal. He was part of the Selecao’s FIFA World Cup 2026 squad. So far, he has earned seven international caps.

This season, Araujo has been a fixture in the middle of defence for Benfica. He has made 19 appearances across all competitions, including 11 in the Primeira Liga and eight in the UEFA Europa League.

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