Manchester United and Arsenal are reportedly not planning to pursue Sporting CP defender Maxi Araujo immediately, despite transfer speculation suggesting that both Premier League clubs could consider a bid worth around £55 million in January. Football London reported the development on Saturday, October 17, 2026, indicating that neither side is currently preparing to advance its interest in the Uruguayan international.

Manchester United focused heavily on strengthening their midfield during the summer transfer window, bringing in Youri Tielemans, Andrey Santos and Carlos Baleba. However, the club’s recruitment strategy left other areas of the squad needing attention, with left-back among the positions supporters expected the hierarchy to address.

Luke Shaw remains an important option in that role, but concerns over the lack of strong competition have fuelled calls for United to recruit another specialist. The club reportedly considered Newcastle United defender Lewis Hall and Manchester City’s Rayan Ait-Nouri, although financial constraints prevented them from securing a new arrival in the position.

Arsenal’s situation is different, with Mikel Arteta already having several players capable of operating at left-back. Riccardo Calafiori has been performing well, while Piero Hincapie and Myles Lewis-Skelly offer additional alternatives. That depth could explain why the Gunners are not treating the position as an urgent recruitment priority.

Araujo’s versatility has nevertheless made him an attractive potential target. The 26-year-old can play as a conventional left-back or operate further forward on the same flank, giving managers flexibility in their tactical arrangements. Reports had suggested that United and Arsenal could be prepared to offer approximately €65 million to secure his services during the January window.

However, Sport Witness reports that neither club is currently looking to move negotiations forward. Araujo joined Sporting CP from Mexican club Toluca in 2024 and remains contracted to the Portuguese side, which holds a strong position in any potential transfer discussions.

Sporting reportedly valued the defender at between €45 million and €50 million during the summer, while his release clause is said to be set at €80 million. Although his performances for Uruguay have attracted attention, there is currently no indication that an agreement with either English club is close.

A source cited by Sport Witness reportedly described the situation as unchanged, suggesting that discussions had made little progress since initial enquiries around six months earlier.

Separately, former Manchester United defender Paul Parker has warned Michael Carrick’s side to expect a difficult challenge against Leeds United. United are reportedly attempting to end a five-match winless run, but Parker believes the atmosphere created by Leeds supporters and their midfield strength could make the encounter particularly demanding.

Parker has also questioned United’s consistency and work rate, arguing that players need to work harder and provide more reliable support to their teammates. He suggested the club could face a challenging campaign, potentially settling for a lower European qualification place or pursuing silverware through a domestic cup competition.