Man City want to sign 24-year-old transformed into a titan by Ruben Amorim
Man City have turned their attention to the signing of Sporting CP star Maxi Araujo, sources have told Football Insider.
Speaking on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, senior correspondent Pete O’Rourke revealed that the Uruguay international has placed himself firmly on City’s radar with his displays this season.
The 24-year-old has established himself as a promising talent thanks to his work under new Man United boss Ruben Amorim since his move to Sporting in the summer.
He has three goals and one assist in 14 appearances across all competitions this season, including a strike in the 4-1 win against Man City.
That goal is said to have put him on the radar of the transfer team at the Etihad, who are now set to keep a close eye on his development.
He is also capable of playing as a makeshift left-back or wing-back, a position City have struggled with and now ranks near the top of their list of priorities in the transfer market.
However, it has been suggested that a Premier League move may be too soon for him and he would be better served continuing his development in Portugal.
Man City eyeing potential move to sign Maxi Araujo from Sporting CP
Araujo was signed by Sporting for a fee of just £13.6million in August, and is thought to have already boosted his price tag through his performances.
Amorim has been key to the winger’s development, helping him to become more effective with his pressing and in the final third.
He has established himself as a regular fixture in the starting XI at Sporting, featuring in seven of their 11 league games so far this season and in all four of their Champions League games.
Man City, meanwhile, have been assessing their squad depth ahead of the January transfer window amid a growing injury crisis.
Rodri, Oscar Bobb, Ruben Dias, John Stones, Jeremy Doku, Matheus Nunes and Manuel Akanji are just some of the names currently carrying blows.
As a result, City are keen to provide cover in a number of positions, with Araujo’s talent and versatility viewed as valuable assets.
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