Manchester United and Chelsea have emerged as competitors in the pursuit of Sporting CP left-back Maxi Araujo, a player previously linked with Arsenal, according to Portuguese media reports. The 26-year-old Uruguay international, who can operate both defensively and offensively on the left flank, delivered an impressive campaign for Sporting last season, netting seven goals and providing six assists across all competitions.
Araujo's World Cup performances attract attention
Araujo has carried his club form onto the international stage during the ongoing World Cup, scoring twice and adding an assist in Uruguay's two Group H matches against Saudi Arabia and Cape Verde. His standout displays have drawn scouts from several top European clubs.
According to Record, Manchester United dispatched representatives to watch Araujo during Uruguay's 2-2 draw with Cape Verde last Sunday. Chelsea, meanwhile, are monitoring the defender as a potential replacement for Marc Cucurella, who completed a £52 million transfer to Real Madrid earlier this month.
Arsenal's previous interest
Arsenal had been the frontrunner for Araujo's signature, with Record reporting in April that the Gunners made 'initial contact' to discuss a summer move. Manager Mikel Arteta was reportedly impressed by Araujo's performances during Sporting's Champions League quarter-final ties against Arsenal. However, the emergence of Manchester United and Chelsea has complicated the transfer landscape.
Sporting CP hold a strong negotiating position as Araujo's contract still has three years remaining and includes an €80 million (£69.3 million) release clause. The Portuguese club are under no pressure to sell unless a club meets that valuation.
Araujo hints at possible departure
Speaking after Uruguay's draw with Cape Verde, Araujo did not dismiss the possibility of leaving Sporting this summer. 'I'm very happy at Sporting, but you never know what's going to happen,' he said. 'I was happy to be able to talk to Fresneda, I'm grateful that he's here and I love playing with him. I hope we can play together for a long time.'
The defender's comments suggest he is open to a move, though he remains committed to his current club for now. With three major Premier League sides now circling, the race for Araujo's signature is set to intensify as the summer transfer window progresses.
