The Blues had an interest in the Portuguese centre-back last summer, but Benfica were reluctant to sanction his sale before the deadline.

United have now joined the pursuit of the highly-rated defender, but they may have to wait until the summer to discuss terms with his club.

Araujo has a release clause worth €80 million in his contract and Benfica won't accept anything less for his sale in the next transfer window .

However, they are more than willing to negotiate on the price next summer. United and Chelsea could go on a bidding war for his services.

Araujo is said to be excited by the prospect of playing in the Premier League and he has no preference for any clubs at the moment.

United are expected to offload Jonny Evans , Victor Lindelof and Harry Maguire when the season ends. They could invest in two new centre-backs.

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