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Arsenal open talks to sign Sporting’s Maximiliano Araujo

By on May 27, 2026

Arsenal have reportedly made contact to sign Sporting CP star Maximiliano Araujo, as per Caught Offside.

Since moving to Jose Alvalade Stadium from Mexican side CD Toluca, the 26-year-old has enjoyed great success over the last two seasons, winning a Liga Portugal title and a Taca de Portugal trophy.

This season, the Uruguayan has displayed impressive performances, scoring seven goals and registering six assists in 46 appearances across all competitions. Moreover, he has helped his side keep nine clean sheets.

Now, Caught Offside claim that Araujo’s recent eye-catching performances haven’t gone unnoticed as he has started attracting a lot of attention ahead of the summer window.

Arsenal are interested in him and have already made contact to learn about the details of signing him. Moreover, Manchester United are in this race and have also held talks over this deal.

On the other hand, Manchester City and Chelsea have expressed their interest in him as well. However, Sporting aren’t in any rush to sell him, with his existing deal set to run until 2029. He even has a £70m release clause in his current contract.

But, the Lions might be open to cashing-in on him this summer as they are a selling club and are ready to accept just around £43m.

Araujo to Arsenal

Araujo is a versatile defender as he can play in the left-back and LWB positions. Moreover, he can provide cover in the LW role if needed. He is quick, strong, can deliver excellent crosses from the flanks, and also works extremely hard without possession.

The South American is a highly talented player and is currently at the prime stage of his career. So, he would be a shrewd acquisition for Arsenal should they purchase him.

However, Mikel Arteta already has Riccardo Calafiori, Piero Hincapié, and Myles Lewis-Skelly as options to deploy in the left-back position. Moreover, Jurrien Timber can provide cover in this area if needed.

Hincapié moved to the Emirates Stadium from Bayer Leverkusen on a loan deal last summer, and the move is expected to be made permanent during the offseason.

So, Arsenal already have enough firepower in their left-back position and don’t need to invest more to add further depth.