There has been a big development over the future of Maxi Araujo after Tottenham Hotspur enquired about the Sporting Lisbon star earlier this summer.
Tottenham’s interest in Araujo first came to light several months ago, with the 26-year-old alleged to be exploring a new challenge following two seasons at Lisbon.
It had been claimed that Spurs had scouted the left-back extensively last season and they had been impressed by the Uruguayan’s attributes.
However, the Lilywhites have already secured the services of Andy Robertson on a free transfer, with the Scotland international set to compete with Destiny Udogie for the left-back role.
Tottenham target Maxi Araujo now wants to stay at Sporting Lisbon
According to a report in Record (as relayed by Sport Witness), Araujo is now set to stay at Jose Alvalade Stadium beyond this summer.
The report reveals that it is not just Tottenham who expressed interest in the experienced left-back, with Man United and Chelsea also willing to offer him a route to the Premier League.
The outlet reveals that Araújo seriously considered leaving the Portuguese club to make a move to a bigger league during the World Cup.
However, the 26-year-old has changed his mind and has decided that he will continue at Sporting for at least one more season.
The club’s signing of his compatriot, Rodrigo Zalazar, has had a part to play in his decision, serving as an ‘extra incentive’ for the full-back to commit his future to the club.
Araujo could sign a new contract at Sporting
Record also says that Sporting have been working on renewing the left-back’s contract for a while, with the club willing to increase his current salary from €700k (£600k) to €2m (£1.7m) per year.
Additionally, it is revealed that Araujo could be given the captain’s armband for next season, which may have played a part in his decision to stay.
The website adds that the Uruguayan international is convinced that the ‘door will open’ for him to leave Sporting again next summer.
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