Toby Melville via Action Images via Reuters
Arsenal and Liverpool could be about to be embroiled in a transfer battle for one of Europe's most highly-rated full-backs.
The Premier League rivals have spent much of the summer chasing the same targets, including Paris Saint-Germain's Bradley Barcola. The Gunners have reportedly paved the way for the Merseysiders to land the French winger, but he's not the only player linked with both clubs.
While Mikel Arteta is well-stocked at left-back, he could look to add more depth and move Myles Lewis-Skelly into midfield. Andoni Iraola is looking to replace Andy Robertson following the veteran Scotsman's move to Tottenham Hotspur.
Arsenal and Liverpool Offered Maxi Araujo
Maxi Araujo
Arsenal and Liverpool have reportedly both been handed the chance to sign Sporting CP's Maxi Araujo, per SunSport. Intermediaries are said to have reached out to potential suitors and informed them that the Uruguayan is available for the right price.
Sporting are asking for at least £51.5 million to sell the 26-year-old, who has shone in Liga Portugal. Last season, he registered seven goals and six assists in 47 games across competitions, earning his status as one of the most admired attacking full-backs in Europe.
The Premier League rivals are weighing up potential moves for Araujo and deciding whether his price is reasonable. He is thought to be dreaming of a move to the English top flight and, as such, personal terms will most likely be able to progress quickly.
While Arteta and Iraola's main focus has been on adding a new winger to their squads, a move for Araujo, dubbed "superb", might appeal. While he has spent most of his spell at Sporting at left-back, he can play on the wing.
A Move to Liverpool Makes The Most Sense
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Liverpool are the club who would benefit most from signing Araujo, as they clearly need another option at left-back. Milos Kerkez has been reunited with his former Bournemouth boss Iraola, and he'll be hoping he can get back to his best under the Spaniard.
It's crucial that the Hungarian is handed competition though and Robertson's departure needs addressing. Konstantinos Tsimikas has failed to impress during his time at Anfield and moving the Greek defender on is probably a wise decision.
Andoni Iraola Liverpool 2026
Andoni Iraola Liverpool 2026
Arsenal have Lewis-Skelly competing with Riccardo Califiori for the left-back starting berth in Arteta's team. An injury crisis could prove problematic, but given how much Sporting are demanding, it doesn't make sense to spend that much money on a third left-back.