Confusion surrounding Araujo: Is Benfica defender a Bayern candidate? | OneFootball

FC Bayern continue to be linked with numerous players on the international transfer market. Now a new report from Portugal and Turkey is causing discussion. According to the report, Benfica defender Tomás Araújo is on Munich’s shortlist. However, there are also reports to the contrary

While FC Bayern’s transfer activities are currently focusing primarily on the offensive and full-back positions, a new name has now surprisingly emerged for the central defense

Transfer journalist Ekrem Konur reports that Munich are continuing to keep a close eye on the development of Benfica Lisbon’s Tomás Araújo, with the Portuguese international reportedly on the record champions‘ internal list of candidates

However, there are said to be no concrete negotiations or talks between the clubs so far, with the focus currently being on monitoring the 24-year-old’s situation

However, the news has caused some surprise, as other information has recently been coming out of Munich

Insider contradicts the speculation

Just a few days ago, BILD reporter Christian Falk stated that Araújo is currently not a concrete topic at FC Bayern. According to his information, Munich are not currently planning a move for the central defender

The main reason for this is the current squad situation: with Jonathan Tah, Dayot Upamecano, Min-jae Kim and Hiroki Ito, Vincent Kompany already has four top-class options for the center of defence

Although Kim and Ito in particular have been repeatedly linked with a possible departure in recent weeks, there is currently little to suggest that either defender is actively pursuing a move

As long as nothing changes in this situation, there is no acute need for Bayern to act in the central defender position

Araújo remains an interesting player

photo: IMAGO

Nevertheless, Araújo is likely to be on the watch lists of many top European clubs. The Portuguese is one of the most consistent defenders in the Primeira Liga and has continued to develop in recent years

The 1.87-metre defender comes from Benfica’s youth ranks and made his breakthrough into the professional ranks in 2022. After a loan spell at Gil Vicente, he developed into a permanent fixture in the Lisbon team

Araújo has now made 89 appearances in the Portuguese league and has also gained valuable international experience in 23 Champions League matches

National coach Roberto Martínez now also trusts the defensive player and has called him up to Portugal’s World Cup squad

However, a potential transfer would be anything but cheap. Araújo still has a long-term contract with Benfica until 2029, so the Portuguese are only likely to be willing to talk if they receive a very lucrative offer

From FC Bayern’s point of view, the personnel issue therefore remains more of a mind game for the time being. The situation could only change if there are departures in central defence. Until then, Munich will continue to focus on other areas of the squad – in particular the planned signings of Ismael Saibari and Nathaniel Brown.