Benfica want to retain Tomás Araújo until the end of this season amid claims of Newcastle United interest, according to O Jogo.
The defender’s playing time was restricted last season, but his situation has improved in this campaign, after Bruno Lage’s arrival in September. He’s clocked in 1,073 minutes from 12 games for the Eagles.
Recent claims in the English media have stated Newcastle are one of the clubs to have serious interest in the 22-year-old. It was also reported the Magpies are preparing an offer to convince the Portuguese club in January.
The Portugal international’s deal lasts until 2028, and includes a €100m release clause.
The Primeira Liga side will need an ‘irrefutable’ offer to sanction Araújo’s sale in the winter market. It’s claimed Benfica are confident Newcastle will ‘not be willing or able’ to pay the required fee to secure the player’s services in January.
Benfica view Araújo as a key player and the possibility of him changing clubs will only be considered next summer.
