Manchester United have stepped up their interest in Sporting CP defender Maxi Araújo by sending a club representative to watch the Uruguay international at the World Cup, according to reports from Portugal.
Record claims a Manchester United official was in attendance for Uruguay's 2-2 draw with Cape Verde in Miami, where the versatile left-sided player continued his excellent tournament with another impressive display.
The report adds that United are now "tightening their grip" on a player they have monitored throughout the 2025/26 season as the club continue their search for reinforcements at left-back.
Manchester United encouraged by World Cup displays
Araújo has been one of Uruguay's standout performers during the tournament, contributing two goals and one assist in his opening two appearances under Marcelo Bielsa.
Against Cape Verde, the 26-year-old scored again before dedicating his celebration to Uruguay legend Luis Suárez, his childhood idol.
According to Record, Manchester United's scout left Miami with an even stronger opinion of the Sporting defender, whose versatility remains one of his biggest attractions.
Comfortable at left-back, wing-back or further forward on the left wing, Araújo offers the tactical flexibility United are believed to be seeking this summer.
Araújo leaves the door open to a transfer
Following the draw with Cape Verde, Araújo was questioned about his future by Portuguese media.
“I am very happy at Sporting, but you never know what will happen.” — Maxi Araújo, via Record
While the Uruguay international stopped short of expressing any desire to leave Lisbon, his response has been interpreted in Portugal as leaving the possibility of a summer transfer firmly open.
Sporting prepare for transfer talks
Sporting are already planning their next move once Uruguay’s World Cup campaign concludes.
According to Record, club officials intend to meet with Araújo’s representatives after the tournament to determine whether he will remain in Lisbon or pursue a transfer.
If no suitable offer arrives, Sporting are prepared to reward the defender with a substantial salary increase. Araújo currently earns between €700,000 and €800,000 net per season, with a new contract expected to move him much closer to the club’s highest earners.
| Maxi Araújo Profile | Details |
|---|---|
| Age | 26 |
| Club | Sporting CP |
| Release clause | €80 million |
| Expected negotiating price | Around €60 million |
Source: Record – 26 June 2026
Although Araújo’s contract contains an €80 million release clause, the Portuguese newspaper reports Sporting would be prepared to open negotiations at around €60 million.
Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur are also credited with interest, while Atlético Madrid have reportedly cooled their pursuit after learning Sporting’s valuation.
Key Points
- Manchester United sent a scout to watch Maxi Araújo at the World Cup.
- The Sporting defender has registered two goals and one assist for Uruguay.
- Araújo has admitted he is open to whatever the future brings.
- Sporting are expected to begin negotiations at around €60 million.
- Chelsea and Tottenham also remain interested.
What's next?
Manchester United are expected to continue monitoring Araújo throughout the remainder of the World Cup before deciding whether to make a formal approach. Sporting will hold talks with the player's representatives after Uruguay's campaign ends, with either a lucrative new contract or transfer negotiations likely to follow.
Would Maxi Araújo be the ideal left-sided addition for Manchester United this summer?
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