The Spanish newspaper Mundo Deportivo reported that Barcelona is closely monitoring the young defender Thomas Araújo, who is 23 years old, as a potential option to strengthen the team's defense in upcoming transfer windows.

Araújo is distinguished by his physical and technical abilities that make him an ideal player for the backline, possessing speed and high technical skill. He plays as a competent center-back for Benfica under the leadership of coach José Mourinho. The player is 1.87 meters tall and is considered a suitable option to replace the left center-back position temporarily held by full-back Gerard Martí, due to the absence of Andreas Christensen.

Statistically, Araújo participated last season in 44 matches across all competitions with Benfica, scoring one goal and providing three assists. This season, he has played 21 matches, totaling 1,232 minutes and scoring one goal. Araújo is also a graduate of Benfica's academy, having won the UEFA Youth League with them in 2022, and recently renewed his contract until 2029.

The newspaper added that Barcelona has not made a final decision regarding the potential transfer to cover for Christensen's absence. The club has until January 15 to prove to the La Liga medical committee that the player's absence is long-term, which would allow using 80% of his salary to register a new signing.