Chelsea have moved into a strong position to complete the signing of Sporting CP star Maximiliano Araujo, according to fresh reports from Portugal, with the versatile Uruguay international emerging as one of the Premier League club’s leading summer transfer targets.
Portuguese newspaper A Bola reports that Sporting are already preparing for the possibility of Araujo’s departure following the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with Chelsea viewed as the club most likely to secure his signature.
The report claims CHELSEA are leading the race for the star, who has attracted growing interest after an impressive campaign in Portugal and a series of strong performances for Uruguay on the international stage.
Araujo, who can operate as a left winger, wing-back or full-back, joined Sporting from Toluca in 2024 and has since established himself as a key figure at the Lisbon club. His versatility and athleticism are understood to be qualities highly valued by Chelsea’s recruitment team as they continue to reshape the squad ahead of the new season.
While Sporting inserted an €80 million release clause into Araujo’s contract, which runs until 2029, reports in Portugal suggest a deal could potentially be negotiated for a fee in the region of €60-70 million.
Sporting are not under pressure to sell, but A Bola indicates the Portuguese champions are planning for all scenarios should the player push for a move after the World Cup.
Chelsea’s interest in Araujo is not new. Reports earlier this year claimed club scouts had closely monitored the Uruguayan during Sporting’s domestic and European fixtures, with the London side impressed by his performances in high-profile matches.
Tottenham Hotspur, Arsenal and Manchester United have also been credited with an interest, although Chelsea are now believed to be at the front of the queue.
CHELSEA have already built strong links with Sporting in recent transfer windows, completing deals for highly-rated youngsters Geovany Quenda and Dario Essugo. That relationship could prove beneficial as negotiations develop for another Sporting player.
For now, Araujo remains focused on Uruguay’s World Cup campaign, but Chelsea’s pursuit appears to be gathering momentum. If the latest reports from Portugal are accurate, Stamford Bridge could be the winger’s next destination before the summer transfer window closes.
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