The competition for Maxi Araujo is set to intensify, with Tottenham now one of four clubs battling for the Sporting Lisbon star.
Tottenham’s interest in Araujo first came to light several months ago, but the speculation linking the left-back with a move to N17 has intensified over the last few weeks.
This may be potentially connected to reports suggesting that Destiny Udogie could leave Spurs to return to Serie A, with Juventus eyeing a move for the Italy international.
Tottenham have scouted the Sporting full-back several times already, but sources from Portugal have revealed that Chelsea and Man United are prepared to challenge Spurs for the Uruguayan.
Chelsea ready to step up interest in Tottenham target Maxi Araujo
A new report in Record (as relayed by Sport Witness) claims Chelsea are now set to accelerate their efforts to land the 26-year-old Tottenham target.
The outlet reveals that the Blues are keen on adding a left-back to their squad after Marc Cucurella’s move to Real Madrid, with Araujo at the top of their wishlist.
Having previously completed scouting missions and made contacts over a deal for the Sporting star, the West London club are now preparing to take the next step.
However, the report also points out that Chelsea may first need to complete more player sales before making decisive moves in the market, which could allow Tottenham or Man United to steal a march on the Blues.
Sporting do not want to lose Araujo
Record say that apart from Spurs and United, Atletico Madrid are also ‘attentive’ to the situation of the Uruguay international.
However, Sporting believe they can convince Araujo to remain in Lisbon and have already scheduled a meeting with the defender’s representatives after the World Cup regarding a new contract.
The Portuguese club are prepared to make the Tottenham target one of the highest-paid players in their squad to convince him to sign on the dotted line.
The outlet adds that interested clubs would have to meet Araujo’s €80m (£69m) release clause to prise him away from the José Alvalade Stadium this summer.