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Manchester United Join Arsenal in Pursuit of €80m-Rated Defender Maxi Araujo
Deepa Krishnaswamy | May 24, 2026 3:23 PM CST

Maxi Araujo is reportedly considering a move away from Sporting CP at the end of the current season.

According to a report from A BOLA, both Manchester United and Arsenal have expressed interest in signing the 26-year-old defender.

The report indicates that Manchester United have already made initial enquiries about a potential deal for Araujo, while Arsenal have also approached the Lisbon-based club. However, Sporting CP are keen to retain the services of their left-back for at least another season.

Araujo’s current contract includes a release clause of €80 million, and the Portuguese side are under no immediate pressure to approve his sale during the upcoming transfer window. It remains to be seen whether Manchester United will be prepared to make a significant financial offer to secure the player’s signature. It appears improbable that any club would pay the full €80 million release clause, so United are expected to negotiate a more reasonable transfer fee.

Manchester United have been actively seeking a reliable left-back, and the Uruguay international could emerge as the perfect long-term successor to Luke Shaw. Having delivered standout performances against elite opposition in the UEFA Champions League, Araujo has demonstrated that he possesses the ability to thrive in the Premier League. The defender has contributed 12 goal involvements this season, showcasing his effectiveness both defensively and offensively.

With Arsenal also in the running, Manchester United may need to accelerate their efforts to secure Araujo’s signing. Given Sporting CP’s reluctance to part ways with the player, United might be required to table an offer that exceeds the club’s current valuation to convince them to negotiate.

The 26-year-old would likely be enticed by the opportunity to join one of the world’s most prestigious football clubs. Both Arsenal and Manchester United can offer him a prominent platform to display his talent at the highest level, and the coming weeks will reveal which destination he ultimately chooses.


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