Newcastle 'make checks on Chelsea transfer target' with huge £85m release clause

Benfica have declared that centre-back Tomas Araujo is ‘untouchable’ this January, despite interest from Chelsea and Newcastle. The Blues, known for their lavish spending, had previously enquired about the Portugal international during the summer transfer window but decided to focus on signing a new striker instead.

However, Newcastle, who have been inconsistent this season, are looking to bolster their defence and have shown interest in the highly-rated 22-year-old, according to the Mirror. Crystal Palace also made an unsuccessful bid for Araujo in August, but Benfica’s management insist he will only be sold if his £85million (€100m) release clause is met.

The Lisbon-based club are confident that Newcastle will not be able to meet the asking price and plan to reassess Araujo’s future at the end of the season. In addition, Newcastle have also scouted Araujo’s defensive partner Antonio Silva, who is on Juventus’ radar.

Silva also has an £85m release clause, but Benfica may consider lower offers as he nears the final two years of his current contract.