Crystal Palace have made a move for Benfica’s Tomás Araújo, according to Portugal’s Record.
The 22-year-old’s game time was limited last season as he clocked in 737 minutes from 20 matches in all competitions. He has already made two starts this season.
Araújo has long been on the radar of Crystal Palace sporting director Dougie Freedman.
Crystal Palace’s Joachim Andersen is reportedly set to join Fulham, while Newcastle United want to sign his teammate, Marc Guéhi. Therefore, the London club are looking for new centre-backs in the market.
The Premier League side have tried to sign the Portuguese defender through a ‘lightning operation’. It’s claimed Crystal Palace have tabled a €30m bid, but it has been rejected by Roger Schmidt’s side.
Record state Benfica have no desire to sell the player who has a €100m release clause in his deal that lasts until 2028. Transfermarkt values him at €7m and there’s a huge gap in valuations.
Despite this, the report states the Portuguese club are ‘adamant’ with their stance and are refusing to let Araújo leave in this window. Therefore, it may be best for Oliver Glasner’s side to look at other options before the window closes next week.
