Arteta Pushes Arsenal to Land Sporting's Araujo Ahead of United and City

Mikel Arteta has made his move to bring Sporting CP's Maxi Araujo to the Emirates, urging the club to win the race for the Portuguese side's versatile left-back ahead of Manchester United and Manchester City.

The 26-year-old Uruguayan, who can operate as a left-back or left winger, has impressed during his time in Lisbon since arriving from Toluca in August 2024 for just under €14million. This season alone, he's contributed six goals and four assists across 41 appearances, playing a key role in Sporting's Portuguese Cup final run and title charge.

According to Portuguese media, Arsenal have already initiated contact with Araujo's representatives—a move that mirrors the pathway Viktor Gyokeres took when joining the north London club. Arteta reportedly identified the South American as a priority after watching him perform against Arsenal in the Champions League quarter-finals, where the Gunners triumphed 1-0 on aggregate. With sporting director Andrea Berta now actively pursuing negotiations, Arsenal have moved beyond preliminary interest.

Whilst both Manchester clubs have been credited with interest, the Gunners have stolen a march by approaching Araujo's camp first. His contract at Jose Alvalade runs until 2029 and carries an €80million (£69million) release clause, though Sporting are believed willing to negotiate a sale for around €60million (£52million).

Scouts from Tottenham, Chelsea, Atletico Madrid, Juventus and AC Milan have also monitored the player this term, suggesting considerable European appetite for his services.

The bigger picture

Whether Arsenal pursue Araujo may depend on summer departures at left-back. Both Riccardo Calafiori and Myles Lewis-Skelly have been linked with moves away, yet even if one departs, the position hardly qualifies as urgent business. Piero Hincapie is expected to join permanently following his impressive recent performances, whilst Jurrien Timber offers additional flexibility should Arteta require cover.

The club's genuine priority lies elsewhere—Arsenal should be targeting an elite left winger to freshen up their attacking options. Real Madrid's Rodrygo, once a potential candidate, remains sidelined with an ACL injury. Instead, Anthony Gordon, Rafael Leao and Bradley Barcola represent more realistic alternatives to rejuvenate the wide attacking threat.