Man United could overtake Arsenal in race for Sporting left back

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Arsenal have been credited with interest in Sporting CP left back Maxi Araujo, but a new report suggests the move is far from a priority for the club, potentially opening the door for Manchester United to push ahead in the race.

The Uruguay international has impressed in Portugal this season, with his displays helping raise his profile among Europe's top clubs. Manchester City are also reportedly monitoring the 24 year old's situation, underlining the level of interest building around him.

Arsenal's left back options limit urgency

According to Sport Witness, Manchester United are currently Arsenal's main Premier League competitor for Araujo's signature, having failed to land a left back during the summer transfer window. The report states that Arsenal do not see signing Araujo as an immediate priority, which could give United an advantage should they decide to pursue the deal more seriously.

Arsenal's existing options help explain the lack of urgency. The club already have around three players capable of competing at left back, meaning recruitment in that position may be considered less pressing than strengthening elsewhere in the squad.

Future still uncertain

Despite the interest, there is no guarantee Araujo will leave Sporting in the near future, or that Arsenal will make a formal move even if he does become available. A departure from the Portuguese club has been suggested as a possibility in the coming months, but nothing concrete has materialised.

For Arsenal, a serious approach for Araujo may depend on whether the club's current left back situation changes. Unless a departure creates space in the squad, the Uruguayan could remain further down the list of recruitment priorities, leaving United with a potential opening to make him their own target.

With competition from both Manchester clubs already in the picture, how this situation develops will likely hinge on Sporting's willingness to negotiate and which side decides to make Araujo a genuine priority target.