Mikel Arteta liked what he saw, already in touch for Sporting key man | OneFootball

Maxi Araújo continues to grow in prominence at Sporting, and his performances are already starting to have an impact on the international market, with Arsenal making the first contacts for the winger. The London club’s interest intensified after the clashes between the Lions and the Gunners in the Champions League, where the number 20 left a very positive impression.

The performances against Mikel Arteta’s side did not go unnoticed and are said to have prompted an initial approach from the English club, according to the newspaper 'Record'. For now, these are exploratory talks, at a stage when several European clubs are monitoring the left-footer’s development.

Sporting’s board is maintaining a firm stance regarding the future of the Uruguay international. Maxi Araújo is protected by an €80 million release clause and is considered a key element in the team’s structure. Even so, Sporting is open to negotiating for lower amounts, although never below a figure close to €60 million.

At the same time, the player - who went off injured in the last match - is preparing to gain even more international visibility with his participation in the 2026 World Cup. The context could contribute to a further increase in the player’s value.

This season for Sporting, Maxi Araújo - valued at €25 million - has made 41 appearances: 24 in Liga Portugal Betclic, 11 in the UEFA Champions League, four in the Portuguese Cup, one in the League Cup and one in the Super Cup. In the 3,271 minutes he has been on the pitch, the winger has scored six goals and provided four assists.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇵🇹 here.