Maxi Araujo receives contract proposal from club

Maxi Araujo has been linked with a move to Manchester United in recent transfer windows as the club continually attempt to improve its squad.

The full-back, who has been at Sporting CP since the summer of 2024, made 47 appearances last season, scoring seven goals and providing six assists.

Araujo recently represented Uruguay at the World Cup, too, scoring two goals and providing one assist before the South American side were knocked out of the tournament at the conclusion of the group stages.

Manchester United sent a scout to watch the 26-year-old at the tournament whilst interest from Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur has provided competition that United will need to fend off if they are to sign the full-back.

Whilst clubs circle, though, the Uruguay international’s agent has turned to caution, stating that Sporting will not sell the 26-year-old for a cheap price.

Now, the Portuguese giant’s strategy has been unveiled further with A Bola reporting that the club have activated a plan to keep the full-back in their ranks for at least one more season.

The publication also stated that the contract revision will place Maxi Araujo near the top of the club’s salary list and will promote him to a clear leader within the dressing room.

Sporting missed out on Liga Portugal last season, finishing second, whilst FC Porto won the title, six points ahead of their closest competitor.

Araujo’s place in the squad is essential if the club are to win the league next season, hence Sporting’s desire to fend off interest from other clubs through a contract extension.

Whilst news of a contract extension may disappoint those in Manchester United circles, it could be a signal to turn to alternative targets in the full-back position.

United’s next move could therefore be crucial in dictating whether Araujo will play at Old Trafford permanently next season.