Chelsea Eyes Benfica Duo Antonio Silva and Tomas Araujo to Bolster Defence Amid Interest from Rivals

Chelsea is targeting Silva and Tomas Araujo, two promising defensive players from Benfica. Chelsea is “eyeing” these individuals to strengthen their backline as they consider adjustments to their defensive formation, according to insider Simon Phillips. Due to their poor performances, current defenders Benoit Badiashile and Axel Disasi may be sold, according to the report, to make way for Silva and Araujo to take their place.

Antonio Silva, 20, has quickly made a name for himself at Benfica and the Portugal national team, which caught Chelsea’s interest. Many Chelsea fans believe Silva has world-class potential and that he can add exceptional skill and talent to the defense at Stamford Bridge. Silva would join the club’s youthful and talented players if the move goes through.

Silva is reputedly valued at €100 million (£83 million) by Benfica, which is in line with his skills. But according to the reports, if Silva shows interest in moving to a team like Chelsea to further his career, the asking price would drop to £50 million (€60 million). Manchester United, long-time admirers of Silva, as well as Liverpool, are also keeping an eye on his situation, meaning Chelsea could face competition from strong Premier League rivals.

🚨 Chelsea are considering signing two youthful defensive stars from Benfica, Antonio Silva and Tomas Araujo, to bolster their backline.

(Source: @CaughtOffside) pic.twitter.com/hcgRR6Qddo

— Transfer News Live (@DeadlineDayLive) October 24, 2024

Chelsea is primarily interested in Silva, but they are also considering Tomas Araujo as a potential defensive reinforcements. Although he hasn’t made his senior team debut yet, the 22-year-old center-back has been gradually working his way into Benfica’s first team and is thought to be a potential top player.

With a valuation of €20 million (£17 million), Araujo is more inexpensive than Silva. Although Chelsea is interested they are not alone. Arsenal, Tottenham, and even Crystal Palace have indicated interest in Araujo; if Marc Guehi decides to leave in 2025, Palace may consider him as a replacement.

Chelsea is interested in both defenders, but it’s not clear if they will sign them both when summer comes. After his loan with Chelsea expires in 2025, Argentine center-back Aaron Anselmino, who Chelsea signed from Boca Juniors for £15.6 million (€19 million) in August, is expected to make his first team debut. Chelsea might concentrate on getting only one of the Benfica duo given Anselmino’s expected arrival.

With Wesley Fofana, Levi Colwill, Tosin Adarabioyo, and Renato Veiga in Chelsea’s current defense lineup, head coach Enzo Maresca has a good selection. The team appears committed to strengthening even more and making sure they have young, talented players who can adjust to the demands of Premier League football.

Chelsea may frustrate some of their Premier League rivals if they are successful in signing Silva and/or Araujo. Silva is of special interest to Manchester United, and Liverpool has also been watching him. Tottenham and Arsenal are also keeping an eye on Araujo’s development. Chelsea’s pursuit of these individuals is because of their determination to bolster their defense with elite young players, so as to increase their level of competition in upcoming seasons and to achieve that long term plans.