Chelsea are interested in signing Sporting Lisbon fullback Maxi Araujo, according to reports.
Media Foot reports that the Blues are “fighting a battle behind the scenes” with two Premier League rivals, Manchester United and Tottenham, for the Uruguayan international’s signature.
Araujo is a very versatile player. He has spent most of the season as Sporting’s left back, but he can also be deployed further up the pitch.
Head coach Rui Borges has also used him as wingback, on the left wing and even as a no.10 on the odd occasion this campaign.
Sporting could hold out for Araujo’s release clause
It is believed that the 26-year-old has a buyout fee worth around €80m (£69m) in his contract. Some would argue that would be way too expensive but the player has been rather prolific in terms of goal contributions, especially when you consider the position he plays.
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Since moving to Sporting from Mexican outfit Toluca in the summer of 2024, Araujo has averaged a goal or assist every 3.68 matches. Marc Cucurella, in contrast, has managed 1 in 6.33 over the same period.
Of course, Liga Portugal is not the same standard as the Premier League, but the Sporting left-back is clearly very attack-minded.
Are Chelsea looking to replace Cucurella?
Most fans would argue that the Blues have bigger priorities in other positions. A new goalkeeper, a new centre-back and maybe another central midfielder (especially if Enzo Fernandez leaves) would be seen as more important additions.
However, it must be pointed out that Cucurella’s contract will have two years left to run at the end of the season. If the Blues don’t offer him a new deal, there is a chance that the Spanish international will be sold. It is something to keep a close eye on.
Read more about the Chelsea First Team Squad for 2025/26 here