With the summer transfer window fast approaching, a fierce competition is heating up between Liverpool and Chelsea for one of Europe’s most exciting young defensive talents—23-year-old Tomás Araújo of Benfica. After a stellar season in both the Portuguese Primeira Liga and the UEFA Champions League, Araújo has attracted serious interest from the two Premier League powerhouses, as well as Paris Saint-Germain, setting the stage for a high-stakes transfer saga.
Araújo has enjoyed a rapid ascent at Benfica, impressing with his composure, tactical intelligence, and versatility. Comfortable at centre-back and capable of stepping into midfield, his modern defensive profile has drawn comparisons to some of Europe’s best. Liverpool, under new manager Arne Slot, are eyeing Araújo as a long-term replacement for Virgil van Dijk, who turns 34 this July. Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca, meanwhile, views him as the ideal partner for Levi Colwill after securing a top-four finish with a recent 1–0 win over Nottingham Forest—Colwill scoring the only goal.
The urgency has increased following Real Madrid’s recent signing of Dean Huijsen from Bournemouth, a player also on Liverpool and Chelsea’s radar. According to Foot Mercato, Araújo has now become the top target, with Benfica reportedly demanding around £67 million. Despite the hefty valuation, both clubs are financially positioned to bid—Liverpool buoyed by Premier League success and Chelsea boosted by Champions League qualification.
Adding another layer to the narrative, Ajax’s highly-rated 19-year-old Jorrel Hato is also being monitored by both clubs. Chelsea are said to have opened talks over the £42 million-rated Dutchman. Still, Araújo remains the primary focus due to his elite-level experience and consistency.
While Liverpool have also shown interest in Bournemouth’s Milos Kerkez and Chelsea continue their pursuit of Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi, Araújo is seen as the best immediate fit for both squads. The race for his signature is about more than just talent—it’s a test of long-term planning and vision. Liverpool’s recent moves, including signing Jeremie Frimpong, reflect a strategy aimed at sustained success, while Chelsea’s rebuild under Maresca is focused on youthful energy and tactical adaptability.
As negotiations begin to ramp up, the big question is: which club will secure Araújo’s services—and how will he reshape their defense in the seasons to come? Fans from both sides are eagerly awaiting the answer.
