Manchester United step up pursuit of Sporting CP's Maxi Araujo, send scouts to World Cup

According to Portuguese newspaper Record, Manchester United are accelerating their plans to sign Sporting CP left-back Maxi Araujo, with the club sending representatives to the FIFA World Cup to scout the player, and they were impressed by his performance.

The report states that a Manchester United representative was present at the match in Miami during Uruguay's 2-2 group stage draw with Cape Verde, where they scouted the 26-year-old Araujo. The Uruguayan international has impressed at the FIFA World Cup, recording 2 goals and 1 assist in his first two matches. Against Cape Verde, after scoring, he dedicated his goal to his childhood idol, Uruguayan legend Luis Suárez.

Record reported that Manchester United have been continuously monitoring Araujo throughout the 2024/25 season, and the club is now intensifying their efforts to push through a deal. After watching the match in person, Manchester United scouts have an even more positive assessment of Araujo.

Manchester United are currently seeking left-back reinforcements, and Araujo's versatility—capable of playing both left-back and left-winger—makes him a key target for the Red Devils.

When interviewed by Portuguese media after the match, Araujo spoke about his future: "I am happy at Sporting CP, but who knows what will happen in the future." This statement was interpreted by Portuguese media as not ruling out a departure this summer.

The report states that Sporting CP has already made plans for the period after the FIFA World Cup. The club is preparing to hold talks with Araujo's agent to discuss future arrangements. If a transfer does not materialize, they will offer the player a new contract with a significant salary increase.

According to Record, Araujo's current after-tax annual salary is approximately 700,000 to 800,000 euros, and his new contract would significantly increase his wages, bringing them close to Sporting CP's highest salary level as a reward for his excellent performance over the past two seasons.

Although Araujo's release clause remains 80 million euros, Record stated that Sporting CP is willing to begin negotiations at 60 million euros.

Currently, Chelsea remain in contention, Tottenham Hotspur are also monitoring him, while Atlético Madrid have largely withdrawn from the race after learning of Sporting CP's asking price.

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