Crystal Palace will need to improve €30m offer for player – Eagles still want signing

Benfica’s Tomás Araújo was the subject of firm interest from Crystal Palace in the summer window.

On August 21st, Record reported the Eagles had tabled a €30m bid for the defender. Two days later, Roger Schmidt, who was then in charge at Benfica, had ruled out an exit for Araújo.

Fast forward to November and today’s Correio da Manhã points out Benfica president Rui Costa rejected Crystal Palace’s €30m bid for the centre-back in the summer.

The newspaper mainly focuses on the 22-year-old’s performances this season as he made 12 appearances in all competitions. His defensive qualities and ability to start the attack from the back is highlighted.

Bruno Lage was appointed Schmidt’s successor in September and Araújo has become a key player for the Primeira Liga side under the current manager.

The Portuguese’s displays have seen him attract interest from other clubs. It’s claimed Crystal Palace still want to sign him and have to battle it out with Chelsea and Newcastle United.

Correio da Manhã state the player will only leave Benfica if his €100m clause is activated. In other words, Oliver Glasner’s side have to improve their offer by €70m, which seems unlikely.