Manchester United head coach Ruben Amorim is beginning to find his footing at Old Trafford, with early signs suggesting the club’s hierarchy are now prepared to back him more assertively in the transfer market. After a bruising opening year in England that tested both patience and conviction, the Portuguese coach has steadied the ship, eased internal pressure and turned attention firmly towards January recruitment.
Central to those early discussions is a familiar name. United are exploring the possibility of signing Sporting CP wing-back Maxi Araujo, a player Amorim knows well from his time in Lisbon and one who fits the tactical profile the United boss is keen to introduce to his evolving squad.
### Amorim Influence Shapes January Planning
Amorim’s imprint on Manchester United’s long-term direction is becoming clearer. Sources indicate that he has already outlined priority areas for reinforcement, with the wing-back role high on that list. The emphasis is not merely on defensive solidity but on dynamism, attacking output and tactical intelligence – traits that were hallmarks of his Sporting side.
Araujo ticks many of those boxes. The Uruguayan international worked under Amorim briefly before the coach’s move to Manchester late in 2024, but the impression left was a strong one. United’s interest is described as genuine rather than speculative, with internal discussions centring on whether a deal could be engineered despite Sporting’s strong contractual position.
### Araujo Profile Fits Tactical Vision
Araujo joined Sporting CP from Mexican outfit Toluca in the summer of 2023 and has since established himself as a key figure in the Portuguese side. Across all competitions, the 25-year-old has amassed more than 60 appearances, contributing seven goals and nine assists – notable output for a player often deployed from wing-back or wide defensive roles.
His game is built around high-energy running, intelligent positioning and a willingness to attack space, qualities that align neatly with Amorim’s preferred system. United have lacked consistent width and penetration from deep areas in recent seasons, and Araujo’s profile suggests he could address that imbalance.
### Sporting Contract Complicates Deal
Any potential move will not be straightforward. Araujo is under contract at Sporting until the end of the 2028/29 season, having signed a long-term deal upon arrival. That places the Portuguese club in a commanding negotiating position and ensures any January deal would likely require a substantial offer.
Sporting are under no immediate pressure to sell and value the player highly, both for his on-pitch contribution and his resale potential. United, meanwhile, must balance Financial Fair Play considerations with Amorim’s desire for targeted reinforcements rather than short-term fixes.
### Attacking Wing-Back Priority for United
What is clear is Amorim’s intent. He has communicated internally that any addition at wing-back must bring attacking upside, creativity and the ability to operate high up the pitch. This is less about adding depth and more about reshaping United’s tactical identity in his image.
Araujo’s familiarity with Amorim’s demands could prove decisive if negotiations progress. While January deals of this nature are notoriously complex, United’s interest reflects a broader strategy shift: backing their head coach with players suited to his system rather than forcing adaptation.
As the window approaches, this potential reunion is one to watch. Whether United can prise Araujo away from Lisbon remains uncertain, but the direction of travel under Amorim is becoming increasingly defined.