Chelsea Set to Rival United for Sporting's Araujo in £70m Summer Swoop

Xabi Alonso's arrival at Chelsea has already sparked movement in the transfer market, with the Spanish tactician's side now pursuing Sporting CP's highly-rated Maxi Araujo—a move that threatens to upset Manchester United's own interest in the player.

The Blues are gearing up for a significant squad overhaul as Alonso settles into his new four-year tenure. Handed the title of manager rather than head coach—a distinction reflecting his stature—the former Bayer Leverkusen boss will wield considerable influence over incoming and outgoing transfers.

Chelsea's shopping list is comprehensive: goalkeeping reinforcements, a new left-back, defensive additions, and fresh striking options are all on the agenda, with a central midfielder and left winger potentially joining the wish list depending on departures.

Araujo has caught the eye of multiple Premier League suitors following an impressive campaign in Portugal. The versatile operator has chipped in with seven goals and six assists across 47 appearances this season, primarily operating from left-back. His ability to function anywhere across the left flank—from defensive duties to attacking forays—has made him a particularly attractive prospect.

Both Chelsea and Manchester United have been tracking the Uruguayan, though the former are now actively monitoring developments. Arsenal have also lodged early enquiries, while Manchester City have been previously linked, though a switch to the Etihad appears unlikely given their existing defensive depth.

United view Araujo as competition and eventual successor to Luke Shaw, while the player's marauding runs and dangerous crossing ability could potentially complement Benjamin Sesko in attack.

For Chelsea, Araujo would provide competition to Marc Cucurella and Jorrel Hato on the left flank, with the latter potentially shifting into a central defensive role when required. Should Cucurella depart to reunite with Enzo Maresca at Manchester City, Chelsea would be forced into the market for a fresh starting left-back.

Sporting's contract protection includes a £70m release clause, though the Portuguese club may entertain offers in the £50-60m bracket.

Beyond Araujo, Alonso is reportedly eyeing a reunion with Edmond Tapsoba, his former Leverkusen centre-back, to bolster Chelsea's backline.

In attacking areas, finding a reliable finisher remains priority. Liam Delap's current status has come under question, with Igor Thiago, Brian Brobbey, and Ollie Watkins among those being considered as potential replacements.

Pundit Paul Merson has offered his own perspective on Chelsea's striker situation, advocating for Nicolas Jackson's return to Stamford Bridge as Delap's successor. Merson believes Jackson and Cole Palmer share a symbiotic relationship that has benefited both players, with Palmer's recent absence from international consideration partly attributable to Jackson's struggles during the campaign.

The analyst also suggests a back-three formation could unlock Chelsea's potential, allowing their attacking-minded full-backs—Reece James, Cucurella, and Malo Gusto—to operate with greater freedom alongside holding midfielders Enzo Fernandez and Moises Caicedo. Such a setup, he argues, would suit Alonso's tactical philosophy and provide the experience-laden foundation the club requires.