As the summer transfer window approaches, Liverpool and Chelsea are embroiled in a heated battle to sign one of Europe’s most promising young centre-backs, 23-year-old Tomás Araújo from Benfica. The highly-rated defender has caught the attention of both Premier League giants, alongside Paris Saint-Germain, after a series of standout performances in the Portuguese Primeira Liga and the UEFA Champions League during the 2024/25 season. With both clubs looking to bolster their defenses for the upcoming 2025/26 campaign, Araújo has emerged as a top target, setting the stage for a dramatic transfer saga.
Araújo’s rise has been meteoric. Since breaking into Benfica’s first team, the 23-year-old has showcased his versatility, composure on the ball, and defensive tenacity, drawing comparisons to some of Europe’s elite defenders. His ability to play as a centre-back or even step into midfield has made him an attractive prospect for modern tactical setups. Liverpool, under Arne Slot, are reportedly seeking a long-term successor to the aging Virgil van Dijk, who will turn 34 in July 2025. Meanwhile, Chelsea’s Enzo Maresca, fresh off securing Champions League qualification with a 1-0 win over Nottingham Forest on May 22, 2025, sees Araújo as the ideal partner for Levi Colwill, who scored the decisive goal in that match.
The transfer race has intensified following Real Madrid’s recent acquisition of Bournemouth’s Dean Huijsen, a player both Liverpool and Chelsea had previously targeted. With Huijsen off the market, Araújo has become the primary focus, according to a report from Foot Mercato. Sources suggest Benfica could demand a fee in the region of £67 million for the defender, who is under contract until 2028. However, neither club is deterred by the price tag, with Liverpool’s recent Premier League success and Chelsea’s return to the Champions League providing the financial muscle to pursue the deal.
Adding intrigue to the saga, posts on X indicate that another young defender, Ajax’s 19-year-old Jorrel Hato, is also on the radar of both clubs, with Chelsea reportedly opening talks for the £42 million-rated Dutchman. However, Araújo remains the priority due to his proven experience at the highest level. Liverpool’s interest in other defensive targets, such as Bournemouth’s Milos Kerkez, and Chelsea’s pursuit of Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi, suggest both clubs are preparing for multiple scenarios, but Araújo’s profile aligns perfectly with their immediate needs.
The battle for Araújo is not just about on-pitch fit; it’s also a test of strategic planning. Liverpool’s recent signings, like Bayer Leverkusen’s Jeremie Frimpong, indicate a focus on building a squad for sustained dominance, while Chelsea’s long-term project under Maresca emphasizes youth and versatility. As the transfer window nears, the question remains: which club will win the race for Araújo’s signature, and what impact will he have on their defensive fortunes? Fans of both teams will be watching closely as this transfer duel unfolds.
