Real Madrid may have already strengthened their defence this summer, but Jose Mourinho believes the job is not finished yet.
The arrival of Ibrahima Konate was expected to solve one of the club’s biggest concerns heading into the new season.
However, recent reports suggest the Portuguese coach continues to push for another defensive addition and has already identified his preferred target.
According to Defensa Central, Mourinho is asking the Real Madrid hierarchy to bring in 24-year-old Benfica defender Tomas Araujo, a player he rates highly after closely following his development in Portugal.
With several defensive targets proving difficult to sign, the Benfica centre-back is emerging as a serious option for the Spanish giants.
Araujo is Mourinho’s priority defensive target
Araujo is currently at the World Cup. (Photo by Alex Slitz/Getty Images)
Real Madrid’s defensive rebuild has been one of the major themes of the summer transfer window, but Mourinho wants further reinforcements before the market closes.
The report states that the Portuguese manager is a huge admirer of Araujo and believes the defender possesses the qualities needed to succeed at the Santiago Bernabéu.
Mourinho is said to have been particularly impressed by the Benfica star’s performances and views him as a player capable of strengthening Real Madrid both immediately and in the long term.
The timing of this interest is hardly surprising, as Real Madrid’s search for defensive reinforcements has become more complicated following Nico Schlotterbeck’s injury setback, while Alessandro Bastoni remains a difficult target due to the enormous financial demands.
As a result, Araujo has moved higher on the club’s shortlist.
Real Madrid to revisit centre-back market
Mourinho wants Tomas Araujo at Real Madrid. (Photo by Gualter Fatia/Getty Images)
Defensive depth remains a concern for Real Madrid after several injury-hit seasons disrupted their ability to maintain consistency across all competitions.
In that regard, it must be remembered that any move for another defender would depend on developments within the current squad.
Real Madrid are still evaluating potential departures, while the situation of Raul Asencio is also expected to play a role in determining whether another centre-back arrives.
Interestingly, Mourinho does not see the academy graduate as a key part of his long-term plans, which could influence future decisions in the position.
Once there are exits, Real Madrid can then shift their focus to the available options in the market.
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