Transfer market stirs: Henrique Araújo gives Benfica another headache | OneFootball

Henrique Araújo remains a dossier with no solution in sight. At a time when the Benfica squad is closed to possible new signings, the situation of the Portuguese forward is the only issue keeping the Benfica board, led by Rui Costa, up at night regarding the winter transfer market.

According to a report by the newspaper Record in this Sunday’s edition, the terms surrounding Henrique Araújo’s departure remain a mystery for Benfica: loan or permanent transfer. It is worth recalling that the Eagles’ number 39 has not played since November 21, 2025, when he logged a few minutes in Benfica’s win over Atlético in the Portuguese Cup.

The truth is, as the sports daily pointed out, Henrique Araújo was a bet by Bruno Lage and not by José Mourinho. Remember that the forward convinced the Setúbal native during pre-season; however, he ended up losing his place in the squad after the coach was dismissed and the arrival of the Special One.

To further complicate Henrique Araújo’s situation, Anísio Cabral ended up taking the spot that belonged to the Madeira native. The fact that the 17-year-old’s profile greatly appeals to José Mourinho meant he was given greater preference by the world champions’ coach over the 24-year-old striker.

This season, playing for Benfica, Henrique Araújo — valued at 2 million euros — has played only 11 official matches: five in Liga Portugal Betclic, four in the Champions League, one in the Super Cup, and one in the Portuguese Cup. In the 135 minutes he was on the pitch, the forward did not record any goals or assists.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇵🇹 here.