Arsenal are seriously interested in Sporting CP left-back Maxi Araujo ahead of the summer, according to reports in Portugal.
The north London side have reportedly made the 26-year-old their number one target after being impressed by his performances against them in the Champions League.
Mikel Arteta is believed to have been particularly impressed by Araujo’s displays and has identified the Uruguayan as a concrete target for the upcoming transfer window.
Sporting are in a strong negotiating position for the left-sided defender, who is under contract until the end of the 2028-29 season.
Arsenal Keen on Maxi Araujo
Maxi Araujo
According to Portuguese publication Record, Arsenal have already made initial contact with Araujo and his representatives ahead of the summer.
The Gunners have reportedly made an ‘exploratory approach’ for the defender, with Sporting hopeful of retaining him following his standout season.
Araujo is believed to have a release clause worth €80m (£69m), but Sporting are claimed to be willing to negotiate a deal worth at least €60m (£52m).
Araujo has been a key player for the Lisbon side this season, making 41 appearances across all competitions and registering 10 goal involvements.
Why Araujo’s Signing is Perfect for Arsenal
Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta
Amid Arsenal’s interest in Araujo, we asked ChatGPT to explain why a move for the 26-year-old would make a lot of sense for the Gunners this summer:
Elite versatility on the left side – Araujo can play as a left-back, wing-back, or winger, giving Arsenal tactical flexibility in both defensive and attacking systems.
High work rate in Arteta-style systems – He combines intensity, pressing, and defensive tracking with forward runs, which fits Arsenal’s demand for wide players who contribute in both phases.
Direct attacking output from wide areas – At Sporting he has produced goals and assists while playing deeper roles, showing he can still influence the final third even when starting from defence or wing-back.
Arsenal Register Ederson Interest
Atalanta midfielder Ederson waves to supporters
Arsenal could rival Manchester United and Atletico Madrid in the race for Atalanta midfielder Ederson this summer.
According to GIVEMESPORT senior correspondent Ben Jacobs, the Gunners are among several clubs tracking the Brazilian, with Atalanta open to a sale for around €45m-€50m (£39m-£43m).
Ederson is believed to have already reached an agreement over personal terms with Atletico Madrid, but the Spanish side are not prepared to meet Atalanta’s demands.
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