Roberto De Zerbi is preparing for a summer overhaul at Tottenham Hotspur, with changes expected across the squad, and the left-back position has emerged as a priority, with Djed Spence and Destiny Udogie both heavily linked with moves away.
As a result, Spurs are monitoring Sporting CP’s Maximiliano Araujo as a primary target to address a potential gap in their defensive options. Araujo registered seven goals and six assists in 47 appearances across all competitions last season—a remarkable return for a full-back and among the best in Europe.
He is comfortable operating as a left-back, wing-back, or winger, offering valuable tactical flexibility.
However, his discipline could be suspect at times as Araujo received two red cards in 2025/26, one of which came in Sporting’s shock Taca de Portugal defeat at the hands of lower-league outfit Torreense.
Araujo hinted about a potential move to England when Uruguay faced England at Wembley in March.
“It will be my first time in England; let it be the first of many. It will be incredible, a huge opportunity, and I will make the most of it.” Araujo said.
While Sporting are open to renewing his contract, they expect formal approaches this summer and will demand at least €50 million before entering serious discussions—well below the €80 million release clause in his current deal, which is valid until 2029.
Arsenal, Manchester City, Manchester United, and Atletico Madrid are also reportedly monitoring Araujo closely, although any race for his signature is not expected to accelerate until after the World Cup.
Araujo is part of Uruguay’s final 26-man squad and will have an opportunity to showcase his talent when they face Saudi Arabia in their Group H opener on Monday.