Mourinho recommends Benfica defender Tomas Araujo to Real Madrid

Jose Mourinho has added 24‑year‑old Portuguese defender Tomas Araujo to Real Madrid’s shortlist, according to journalist Ramon Alvarez de Mon. Mourinho personally recommended Araujo to the club’s hierarchy as they continue to assess defensive options. Real Madrid have already signed Ibrahima Konate and extended Antonio Rudiger’s contract, yet the club remains keen on another centre‑back. Mourinho believes a further elite defender is required before the transfer window closes. Araujo, who is contracted to Benfica until 2029, played 39 matches for the Portuguese side last season, logging more than 2,700 minutes, scoring once and providing two assists. He is naturally a centre‑back but can also operate at right‑back, offering tactical flexibility.

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In addition to Araujo, Riccardo Calafiori and Josko Gvardiol have featured prominently in Real Madrid’s transfer discussions. Both names are being evaluated alongside the Portuguese defender. At present the interest in Araujo remains at the evaluation stage, with no active negotiations reported. Any move would require talks with Benfica, which holds a strong position on the player’s future.