As the summer transfer window drew to a close, Paris Saint-Germain made a last-minute effort to bolster its defense. However, if the Parisians want to pursue this target again, they’re in for a challenging fight.
In August, Loïc Tanzi of L’Équipe reported that PSG offered Tomás Araújo a €5 million annual contract but needed to sell a center back before finalizing the move.
Meanwhile, transfer expert Fabrizio Romano revealed that Chelsea was also monitoring Araújo as a potential signing. While Chelsea hadn’t made a formal bid, they viewed the 22-year-old as a strong option if they offloaded a defender in the closing days of the transfer window.
Despite interest from both clubs, Benfica decided to hold onto Araújo. According to Romano, the Portuguese side was unwilling to part ways with him, particularly after selling several players earlier in the summer.
Newcastle are doing their homework on Crystal Palance, PSG target
On Saturday, Football Insider’s Pete O’Rourke revealed that Newcastle United are “continuing their hunt for a new centre-back.”
The outlet also highlights that Eddie Howe has been aiming to strengthen this position since the summer transfer window following their unsuccessful attempt to sign Marc Guehi. It’s still an area he’s eager to improve.
Nonetheless, according to Football Insider, a number of top clubs across Europe are doing their homework on Araújo, giving Newcastle competition.
O Jogo also reported that Chelsea, Newcastle, and Crystal Palace are among several clubs interested in the player. The Lisbon club has set his release clause at €100 million, leaving PSG with an all-or-nothing option.
