What scouts have told Man Utd about £68m Uruguay star

Rumours suggest that Manchester United are ready to splash the cash this summer to reinforce both Michael Carrick’s midfield and backline.

It’s an open secret that the Red Devils have got their sights set on several big-money targets in the middle of the park, but their pursuit of those targets hasn’t been without complications.

It very much seems to be the summer of the midfielder in the Premier League and that has seen prices reach a frustrating level for all involved.

Manchester City just paid out a British record £116m to sign Elliot Anderson from Nottingham Forest, while Newcastle United are telling suitors to pay £100m for Sandro Tonali and West Ham have set an £85m asking price for Mateus Fernandes.

Man United have been left considering their options, having already spent just under £40m to sign Ederson from Atalanta. It’s not just in midfield that they’re looking to strengthen, either. Those at Old Trafford have also got their eye on a Luke Shaw upgrade, as the Englishman approaches 31 years old.

Man Utd dispatch officials in race for £68m star

Those at Old Trafford reportedly watched Uruguay left-back Maxi Araujo against Cape Verde and, despite the 2-2 draw, scouts came away raving about his performance.

As reported by Record in Portugal, and relayed by Sport Witness, Man United have now dispatched officials in order to kickstart their move and fend off rival suitors.

Like most deals this summer, though, it won’t come cheap. Araujo reportedly has a release clause worth as much as €80m (£68m), but Sporting CP are willing to start negotiations at around €60m (£51m) in a small boost for the Red Devils.

In terms of quality, Aruajo could finally be the man to take the torch from Shaw. At 26 years old, this is a player at the peak of his powers who has already impressed scouts on the biggest stage.

Man Utd face competition for Araujo

As has been the case all summer so far, Man United face plenty of competition for one of their top targets. Alongside them, Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur are also on the hunt for Araujo’s signature.

Chelsea could especially be one to watch. The Blues just lost Marc Cucurella to Real Madrid and are in a more depserate position than Man United at left-back.

Those at Stamford Bridge haven’t hestitated to splash the cash on a right-back already this summer in Marco Palestra, and could spend big on another fullback before the end of the transfer window.

For Man United, signing Araujo would mean a long-term left-back solution and could also see them get one over on Premier League rivals. It’s a deal that INEOS should go all out for.

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