Manchester United have identified Sporting Lisbon defender Maximiliano Araujo as a potential wing-back target for 2026, according to journalist Graeme Bailey.
The Old Trafford side are aiming to bolster Ruben Amorim’s options on the left side of the defence next year and could reunite the Portuguese tactician with one of his former players.
United have been keeping a close eye on Araujo for the past 12 months, with scouts also present to see him in action for Sporting’s 6-0 win over AVS Futebol SAD last week.
Araujo, who joined Sporting from Mexican side Toluca in August 2024, is under contract until the summer of 2029.
Man United Eyeing Move for Maxi Araujo
Maxi Araujo
According to Bailey, United hold genuine interest in Araujo as a left wing-back option for next summer, as they look to potentially replace Patrick Dorgu.
The Denmark international has struggled for regular minutes under Amorim this term and was the subject of criticism from the Portuguese manager, who claimed he can sense nervousness from Dorgu ‘every time he touches the ball’.
Diogo Dalot, who is a natural right-back, has been Amorim’s first choice at left wing-back for most of the season, starting the last four Premier League games in the role.
Although a natural left-back, Araujo is able to play further up the field, including as a winger. United reportedly view the 26-cap Uruguay international as a ‘perfect’ fit for Amorim’s system.
The Red Devils are aiming to bring in a new wide defender after receiving a request from Amorim for a new signing, with the Portuguese manager keen to add a left wing-back who could offer more going forward.
Araujo is believed to be one of several ‘exciting’ names on United’s radar, along with Benfica defender Samuel Dahl.
Man United Remain Behind Amorim
Ruben Amorim
Although there has been an improvement in results, Man United have struggled for consistency under Amorim this season, winning just two of their last seven Premier League games.
Nevertheless, the Old Trafford hierarchy remain fully behind the Portuguese manager, backing him to turn the situation around following a 4-4 draw with Bournemouth that saw United squander their lead twice.
United, who sit sixth in the Premier League after 16 games – level on points with fifth-placed Crystal Palace – next visit Aston Villa on Sunday.