Chelsea on alert for €80m World Cup star as selling club issue fresh stance

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Matthew Judge | Editor

Chelsea have received a boost in their pursuit of Maximiliano Araujo after learning Sporting CP are planning for his departure this summer, according to reports in Portugal.

The Blues are keen to back new manager Xabi Alonso in the summer transfer market, with The Athletic reporting the club are hoping to sign a new centre-back and a versatile forward.

One man who has been linked with making a move to Stamford Bridge is Uruguay left winger Araujo, who scored in his side’s 1-1 draw with Saudi Arabia in their World Cup opener on 15 June.

STATS

Maxi Araújo

D, M (L)

Sporting

Maxi Araújo

D, M (L)

Sporting

All Tournaments

2025/26

• 47

  Games

• 7

  Goals

• 6

  Assists

View all stats

Araujo joined Portuguese giants Sporting in 2024 and has made 93 appearances for the Estadio Jose Alvalade club, scoring 11 goals and winning two honours including the 2023-24 Primeira Liga title.

However, according to Portuguese publication A Bola, Sporting are reportedly making preparations in the event that Araujo will seek a move away following the World Cup.

The same publication claims Chelsea are the “most likely” club to land Araujo, who could reportedly be available for between €60million and €70m (£52m and £60.6m) despite having a €80m (£69.3m) release clause in his contract which runs until 2029.

Araujo will be hoping to continue his fine form in front of goal when Uruguay lock horns with World Cup debutants Cape Verde in their second Group H fixture today, before Marcelo Bielsa’s side face Spain in their final group match on Saturday, 27 June.

James 'devastated' by news of Cucurella's Chelsea exit

Chelsea meanwhile are believed to be considering a number of attacking targets ahead of the 2026-27 season, with The Athletic claiming Alonso’s side hold an interest in Aston Villa star Morgan Rogers.

The Blues have been busy in regards to outgoings so far this summer, with Marc Cucurella having completed a €60m (£52m) move to La Liga heavyweights Real Madrid last week.

Chelsea captain Reece James has since expressed his disappointment at seeing the Spain international leave the club, telling reporters from England’s World Cup camp: “I spoke with him (Cucurella) a few days ago. He's obviously an amazing player, one of the best left-backs in the world.

“This is his football, you know, players move every few months, and I'm devastated to see him go, but I wish him all the best.”

James will be hoping to help England build on their 4-2 win over Croatia in their Group L opener when they take on Ghana next Tuesday, before facing Panama in their final group game on Saturday, 27 June.