Newcastle United set sights on Maxi Araujo after what they saw against Arsenal
Newcastle United have registered their interest in Sporting CP left-back Maxi Araujo following his consistently impressive performances throughout this season.
Araujo was one of Sporting’s best players over two legs against Arsenal as they slipped to a 1-0 aggregate defeat at the Champions League quarter-final stage last month.
The Uruguay international has been a key man for the Portuguese giants over the last two seasons and is attracting widespread interest ahead of the summer window.
Newcastle have joined the race for his services, as I revealed on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Transfer Insider podcast, but they are set to prioritise other positions ahead of a new left-back.
Newcastle’s transfer plans could change on that front over the coming months, though, with top clubs keen on Lewis Hall and an exit possible as they look set to miss out on European qualification.
🔄 Newcastle Transfer Update 🔄
Breaking news on deals in progress, signings, departures, and contract news from the Newcastle United boardroom.
VISIT THE NEWCASTLE TRANSFER HUBNewcastle join Maxi Araujo race with summer priority outlined
Numerous top Premier League clubs, such as Man City, Man United and Aston Villa, have also been linked to Araujo over the last few weeks.
The Magpies are not planning to sign a left-back at present, but Araujo would likely be a top target to replace Hall if he leaves this summer.
| Appearances | 26 |
| Goals | 4 |
| Assists | 3 |
| Goals conceded while on the pitch | 15 |
| Chances created per 90 | 1.25 |
| Duels won per 90 | 6.34 |
| Fouls won per 90 | 2.59 |
| Recoveries per 90 | 4.77 |
Speaking on the Transfer Insider podcast, I explained: “He’s a player that’s had a good season for Sporting and obviously done well for Uruguay as well. He’ll be going to the World Cup with them.
“He impressed against Arsenal when they played Sporting in the Champions League quarter-finals, and is a player who looks like he has the profile to be a good fit in the Premier League.
“He’s fast, aggressive and likes to get forward, but I don’t think it would be a top priority for Newcastle.
“It would obviously depend (on whether) they were to lose players or players were to move on, then maybe they could be interested in Araujo.”
Newcastle plotting Jan Paul van Hecke swoop amid Brighton contract fears
Eddie Howe is set to target centre-back additions this summer as Newcastle’s defensive frailties continue to be exposed in the Premier League each week at present.
Sources have told Football Insider that Newcastle are keen on Van Hecke as he could be sold by Brighton this summer with contract talks stalling.
The Dutchman is set to enter the final year of his current deal with the Seagulls, and several top Premier League clubs are also keeping tabs on him, with an exit possible in the coming months.
Don’t Miss a Beat: Your Newcastle Insider Access
Get the full story from St James’ Park and Darsley Park with our dedicated expert hubs:
Updated 24/7 with expert analysis from the heart of Tyneside.