Liverpool, PSG Identify Portuguese Ace as Dean Huijsen Alternative With Real Madrid Switch Nearing | OneFootball

Dean Huijsen appears to be heading to Real Madrid, causing Liverpool and PSG to examine alternative options. Both clubs are looking to bolster their backline and again it seems they’ll be zoning in on the same target this summer.

PSG have added some youth to their center-back group over the last two years with the arrivals of Lucas Beraldo and Willian Pacho. Still, the capital club are expected to target another defender this summer.

Presnel Kimpembe’s future remains uncertain, Marquinhos is now in his 30s, Lucas Hernandez is working to rediscover his best form, and Milan Skriniar appears set for a permanent move away. PSG know they need more young depth in that position.

Liverpool, PSG set to battle again for defender

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Since last summer, they’ve been linked with several defensive options—one being SL Benfica’s Tomás Araújo. According to a report this month from Record, PSG are revisiting their interest in the 22-year-old, though they’ll now have to battle with at least one Premier League side.

Anfield Watch reported on Tuesday that Liverpool have Araújo on their radar as they look to reinforce their defense. Benfica are using the Portuguese defender at right-back this season, and he’s also attracting interest from Manchester United and Chelsea.

In a recent PSG Talk Extra Time column, multimedia journalist Zach Lowy—who contributes to BBC, SiriusXM, and other outlets—suggested that PSG should have Araújo back on their radar when the summer transfer window opens in a few months.

“The Benfica academy product has emerged as a vital cog in central defense this season and has also proven capable of filling in at right back when required,” Lowy wrote.

“Thanks to his ability to build out from the back and cover large swaths of the pitch, Araújo has won a starting spot over António Silva and proven essential both in possession as well as in recovering and covering gaps in defense.

“Boasting impressive vision and a superb passing range, Araújo is technically gifted for his 6’2” frame, with his turning radius allowing him to evade pressure and avoid costly turnovers.”