Former Manchester United midfielder Owen Hargreaves has made a stunning claim about goalkeeper Senne Lammens, following his performance during last weekend’s Sunderland draw. Lammens’ heroics Lammens was superb despite United producing a drab performance in their goalless stalemate with Sunderland at the Stadium of Light. Sunderland began as the far superior side, forcing Lammens into action almost immediately as he got down well to deny Noah Sadiki’s effort. The hosts kept pushing, dominating the duels and retaining possession better as United struggled to get into the game. In the second half, Lammens again had to produce an excellent save to deny Brian Brobbey, who seemed sure to open the scoring. United had to wait until the 93rd minute to register their first shot on target. After the final whistle, Carrick insisted that the point was a good one for United at hostile grounds. In his press conference, the United head coach strongly rejected suggestions that his players lacked the expected commitment. Lammens made four saves from inside the box and prevented 2.05 goals vs. Sunderland. Without him, United would have almost certainly lost the game. Speaking on TNT Sports, Hargreaves named the Belgian shot-stopper the player of the season. Senne Lammens prevented 2.05 goals vs. Sunderland, making 4 saves from shots taken inside the box. Man Utd’s best player. 🛑 pic.twitter.com/onUUD2pu6a — Statman Dave (@StatmanDave) May 9, 2026 Hargreaves’ Lammens claim The 2008 Champions League winner said, “I’ll tell you who’s probably been the best signing of all of them: Senne Lammens.” “What did he cost? Not a lot so he’s been value for money.” Hargreaves added, “I think United looked at it and thought,’ What gets us up the table and gets us into the Champions League places?’ It’s not a new midfield player or a goalkeeper, it’s goals.” “So they added Cunha and Mbeumo, guys with Premier League experience who can get you 20-odd goals and United are third right now so I think that’s been proven correct.” “But I do think if they hadn’t have sorted the goalkeeper out, they wouldn’t be in the top-four.” United are next in action on Sunday when they welcome Nottingham Forest to Old Trafford in their final home game of the Premier League campaign. Featured image Stu Forster via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Derick Kinoti Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the Premier League extensively for years. His work blends sharp analysis, tactical insight, and engaging storytelling that resonates with fans around the world. Derick has gained valuable experience in football journalism, developing strong expertise in SEO writing, digital content creation, and social media engagement. A tech enthusiast with a Computer Science degree from the University of Nairobi, he ultimately swapped code for football commentary, bringing an analytical, detail-oriented approach to his writing. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!
Owen Hargreaves picks United’s player of the season, it’s not Bruno Fernandes
“A very good season for me…”: United star explains why he is “proud” of his campaign so far
Senne Lammens played a starring role in Manchester United’s 0-0 Premier League draw against Sunderland at the Stadium of Light on Saturday, 9 May. The Red Devils were far from their best against the Black Cats, who had a few good chances to pick up a win. However, the Belgian custodian refused to be beaten and dealt with everything the home side threw at him, ultimately helping to secure a vital point. With Aston Villa and Liverpool also held to draws over the weekend, United remain six points clear in third place with two games left this season. Caretaker manager Michael Carrick has revived the club’s fortunes since taking over as former head coach Ruben Amorim’s replacement in January. The Red Devils’ decision to invest over £200 million in Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo, Benjamin Sesko and Lammens has already paid dividends. While the three forwards have scored 31 goals between them so far and made the headlines, one could argue that the Belgian goalkeeper has been equally important to the English giants this season. Lammens’ 2025/26 campaign Lammens arrived at the Theatre of Dreams from Royal Antwerp as a relatively unknown figure on the final day of the summer transfer window. United put their trust in the Belgian to solve an issue that had plagued the team for the past couple of seasons. The 23 year old was handed his debut against Sunderland in October last year and he marked the occasion by keeping a clean sheet. It was also the Red Devils’ first clean sheet of the campaign, and the player has not looked back since. Lammens has started every game so far, registering seven clean sheets in 31 appearances for the English giants. Senne Lammens Stats: 2025/26 Season CompetitionAppearancesGoals ConcededClean SheetsYellow CardsRed CardsMinutes Played Premier League30377–2,700′ Jupiler Pro League44—360′ FA Cup12—90′ Total35437–3,150′ Source: Transfermarkt. The Belgian already looks like an upgrade on the error-prone Andre Onana, who is out on loan at Trabzonspor and expected to leave permanently this summer. Lammens has now reflected on his time with the Red Devils. Lammens proud of his debut season Speaking to The National after Saturday’s draw, Lammens said that he was proud of his debut campaign at the Theatre of Dreams. He said: “I think I can be proud of the season I’ve been having. I kind of had the perfect opportunity and the perfect time to come into the team and to grow with the team.” “I think I had a lot of things to learn and still have a lot of things to learn, but in this squad, with this opportunity, I also get the opportunity to show myself and to help the team out. So yeah, it’s been a very good season for me personally.” “As a team as well, we’ve been growing and now it’s the next step. Next season is going to be a big one, so everyone’s going to step up again. Because this season was OK, but it’s not our end goal, so we have to keep building on this and try to get better.” Final Thoughts Lammens’ recent performances have already earned him praise from legendary United goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar. The Belgian will now be aiming to step up another level next season and help the Red Devils secure silverware. Is Senne Lammens for £18M the best value signing of the season? 🤔 pic.twitter.com/P44qa2G7oq — Statman Dave (@StatmanDave) March 30, 2026 Featured image Stu Forster via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Deepungsu Pandit Deepungsu has been a Manchester United fan since 2000. In his playing days, he was an attacking midfielder with a proclivity for the back heel. Right now, however, he prefers to operate as a regista. Deepungsu has been writing about the Red Devils, Football, and other things since 2009. He has worked for over seven years with Sportskeeda, writing football reviews, opinions and news articles. Deepungsu also maintains a blog, The Thinking Me, where he writes about life and things that interest him. His favourite Manchester United player is Paul Scholes.
“That would be special”: Overjoyed Rashford basks in La Liga success as he makes fresh statement on his future
Manchester United loanee Marcus Rashford couldn’t contain his joy as he spoke out on winning La Liga after Sunday’s victory over Real Madrid in El Clásico. La Liga triumph Rashford scored a stunning free-kick in the first half to set Barcelona on their way, as they beat bitter rivals Real Madrid 2-0 at Camp Nou. Ferran Torres scored the other goal as the Blaugrana sealed their 29th La Liga title with three games remaining of the season. After securing consecutive La Liga crowns, Barcelona now sit seven titles behind all-time leaders Madrid. The Blaugrana have gone on an 11-game winning run in the top flight to secure the title and open a 14-point gap between themselves and Los Blancos. Having joined Barcelona on loan from United last summer, Rashford has enjoyed a superb year. His excellent finish against Madrid marked his eighth league goal of the campaign. He boasts an impressive 14 goals and as many assists across all competitions. Now that the league is secured, Barcelona must clarify whether they intend to keep the forward. Barcelona retain the option to make his stay permanent for £26m. But they have been dithering, as they look to get him on another loan deal or drive the price down. United have maintained that there is no room for renegotiating. Speaking to reporters after the final whistle, Rashford reiterated his desire to remain with Barcelona. Rashford’s remarks The Carrington academy graduate told ESPN, “This is the perfect way I want it to end. I’m very happy, I just want to enjoy today.” “I live in the moment. At the end of the season we will see. I came here to win and we do this, so I’m very happy. It’s an incredible feeling.” “The feeling is amazing. It’s been a long season with ups and downs, but I think we deserved to win [LaLiga].” He said about his free-kick finish, “I wasn’t going to shoot. When I put the ball down, I didn’t see the angle, I didn’t feel confident it would be a goal. I was going to cross. But everyone told me to shoot, so I hyped myself up a bit. It was good I shot in the end; it was a good goal.” Rashford replied when asked about his future, “I don’t know. I am not a magician, but if I was, I would stay. We will see.” “I came here to win. I want to win as many things as I can. This is one more to add to this. This is a wonderful team, they’re going to win so much in the future; to be a part of that would be special.” Rashford’s United contract runs until 2028. Featured image Alex Caparros via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Derick Kinoti Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the Premier League extensively for years. His work blends sharp analysis, tactical insight, and engaging storytelling that resonates with fans around the world. Derick has gained valuable experience in football journalism, developing strong expertise in SEO writing, digital content creation, and social media engagement. A tech enthusiast with a Computer Science degree from the University of Nairobi, he ultimately swapped code for football commentary, bringing an analytical, detail-oriented approach to his writing. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!
‘It would be special…’: Maligned Man Utd ace outlines desire to sign for Euro giants this summer
Marcus Rashford has publicly voiced his desire to stay with Barcelona long-term ahead of his loan spell coming to an end.It came after the Manchester United graduate became a La Liga champion last night, doing so in emphatic fashion following a 2-0 win over Real Madrid.DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL STRETTY NEWS APP FOR ALL THE LATEST UPDATES & BREAKING NEWS – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAYMarcus Rashford adds to Barcelona account with jaw-dropping free-kickRashford played a direct part in the El Clásico victory, too, as he netted a scintillating first-half free-kick to break the deadlock in just the ninth minute. What a moment for Marcus Rashford! 😱😱 A stunning free kick to give Barcelona the lead and see them move closer to clinching the title tonight 🔵🔴 𝑃𝑟𝑒𝑠𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑒𝑑 𝑏𝑦 @sbk | 18+ | 𝑃𝑙𝑒𝑎𝑠𝑒 𝐺𝑎𝑚𝑏𝑙𝑒 𝑅𝑒𝑠𝑝𝑜𝑛𝑠𝑖𝑏𝑙𝑦 pic.twitter.com/Ke0Ifkcdqp — Premier Sports (@PremSportsTV) May 10, 2026In doing so, he became the first Blaugrana player to convert a free-kick against their arch-rivals since Lionel Messi in 2012.Want more Stretty News coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you canHansi Flick’s side still have three fixtures remaining of their triumphant campaign, one of which will see Rashford come up against former Red Devils teammate Antony at Camp Nou next Sunday. 🚨 Rashford vía IG, holding his first league title in his career. pic.twitter.com/R8oQfC84Nb — Barça Universal (@BarcaUniversal) May 11, 2026Then, when the term draws to a close, a firm decision will have to be made over whether the on-loan Red joins Barcelona permanently or whether he returns to Carrington, where club chiefs will then look to find an alternative suitor to sign him. Appearances Goals Assists 47 14 14 Rashford’s record for BarçaRashford and Barcelona: The state of playThe Catalan giants do have the option of completing a quick deal by shelling out his £26 million price tag, but reports are suggesting they’re unwilling to commit to such a fee.Until then, the 28-year-old has made it clear how he wants the scenario to end. He said on Sunday evening: “I’m not a magician, but if I were, I’d stay at Barcelona.“It would be special, so we will see.”
‘Contacts took place…’: Romano confirms fresh round of talks with £39m midfielder after personal terms agreement
Manchester United are in ongoing talks with Atalanta regarding a potential deal for Ederson.According to Fabrizio Romano, ‘contacts took place’ in recent days and are active.The Red Devils have been made aware of Ederson’s £39 million price tag, although nothing is at an advanced stage as of yet. 🚨 Manchester United to receive €44m for Rasmus Højlund from next week on, plan confirmed with obligation to buy. Éderson remains on the list and contacts took place but one of multiple options under consideration at #MUFC at this stage. 🎥 https://t.co/7DnntOrvmw pic.twitter.com/cmdd38bErO — Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) May 10, 2026DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL STRETTY NEWS APP FOR ALL THE LATEST UPDATES & BREAKING NEWS – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAYEderson: The state of play amid Atletico Madrid discussionsRemarkably, the Brazilian actually agreed personal terms with Atletico Madrid back in March before the prospective transfer stalled.Atleti have been unwilling to meet Atalanta’s price tag, so instead decided to turn their attention elsewhere.Want more Stretty News coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trustIn doing so, they set their sights on another United target in the form of Joao Gomes.He will be leaving Wolverhampton Wanderers in the coming months following their relegation from the top flight, and now looks to be Madrid-bound after they worked to get all terms agreed as swiftly as possible.United have mulled over both Ederson and GomesThe Spaniards abandoning their pursuit of Ederson then paved the way for United to get involved, hence making their approach in recent weeks. ATALANTA TAKE THE LEAD 💥 A beautifully worked move from the away side, and Ederson reacts 1st to Bellanova’s header across goal, to beat Maignan and give them the lead ⚽️ 📺 @tntsports & @discoveryplusUK pic.twitter.com/F1Xz1pEuOt — Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) April 20, 2025It remains to be seen if the move will materialise, as INEOS are scouting a number of midfielders in the lead-up to the window opening next month.Jason Wilcox and Co. have, over the last year, prioritised the addition of Premier League-proven stars, with both Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha proving to be hugely beneficial signings, so it is perhaps a surprise that the transfer chiefs are favouring Ederson over Gomes.Read more: The Athletic — Liverpool snubbed 2024 summer deal for Man Utd man who INEOS are now desperate to sell
‘Plan confirmed’ — Romano says Man Utd will complete €44m deal ‘next week’ as first summer transfer set in stone
Manchester United and Napoli will complete their deal for Rasmus Hojlund ‘from next week’.Fabrizio Romano revealed on Sunday that the ‘plan [is] confirmed’ for the Red Devils to receive the £38 million buy fee they inserted into the loan terms last summer. 🚨 Manchester United to receive €44m for Rasmus Højlund from next week on, plan confirmed with obligation to buy. Éderson remains on the list and contacts took place but one of multiple options under consideration at #MUFC at this stage. 🎥 https://t.co/7DnntOrvmw pic.twitter.com/cmdd38bErO — Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) May 10, 2026DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL STRETTY NEWS APP FOR ALL THE LATEST UPDATES & BREAKING NEWS – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAYNapoli’s stance on signing Rasmus HoljundNapoli would’ve had no choice but to shell out the sum when their Champions League qualification was confirmed.Want more Stretty News coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trustHowever, the club, along with Sporting Director Giovanni Manna, have maintained since early on in Hojlund’s spell that they planned to sign him permanently, having been impressed with his performances in a sky blue shirt. 2-0 now to Napoli, and it’s a bit of brilliance from Rasmus Hojlund 🤩 The strength the run and cut inside, and a deflection on his shot takes it past the goalkeeper to make it 2-0. 📺 TNT Sports on HBO Max pic.twitter.com/PZdMR3m9Df — Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) April 24, 2026The Italian outfit face Bologna this evening, but are currently only playing to secure second place due to Inter Milan already claiming the Scudetto last weekend.Alas, it means Hojlund’s Old Trafford tenure will be coming to an end after three years – only two of which he actually spent playing for United.He struggled to ever really get going as a Red, despite once overseeing a run of scoring in six successive matches.How Hojlund fared for UnitedThe Dane finished his maiden campaign with 10 Premier League goals to his name, which is a pretty respectable return for a young player’s first stint in England.Yet, he followed it up by finding the back of the net only four times in 32 appearances in his sophomore term, prompting INEOS to sign a replacement upon the culmination of 2024/2025. Appearances Goals Assists 95 26 6 Hojlund’s complete record in all competitions for UnitedBenjamin Sesko subsequently arrived in a £73m switch from RB Leipzig, and he has shown more promising signs than his predecessor in recent months.
United legend tears into “flat” performance versus Sunderland, pinpoints the one thing Carrick will have learnt
Manchester United drew 0-0 with Sunderland at the weekend. The Red Devils were scintillating at times versus Liverpool the week before, but this match was a far cry from that performance. In fact, United were fortunate to escape with a draw, relying on the brilliance of goalkeeper Senne Lammens to keep them in the game. Despite this, the Red Devils did have a great chance in the final seconds of the game to win it when Matheus Cunha was left alone in the penalty area, but he fired his effort straight at the Sunderland goalkeeper. It turned out to be a valuable point, as both Liverpool and Aston Villa also dropped points, and United now only need a point from their remaining two matches to secure third place. Wayne Rooney United’s all-time leading goalscorer, Wayne Rooney, was speaking on the BBC’s Match of the Day programme reviewing the game, and it is safe to say that he was far from impressed by what he witnessed. Reflecting on the match, he stated, “Manchester United’s performance was flat. It felt like an ‘end-of-season’ game for both teams.” Numerous players were given a chance to start who do not normally feature, such as Joshua Zirkzee and Mason Mount, but they did not seem to take the assignment that seriously. Rooney posed the question, “but did the players that came in today for United do enough to prove that they should be at the club next season? Probably not.” Depth needed The former teammate of current manager Michael Carrick claimed the match would be a useful reminder to see what his former side need to improve in the summer window. Rooney explained, “it will be clear to Michael Carrick that there has to be some big investment in the summer for them to compete in the Champions League.” Featured image Richard Heathcote via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Alex Browne Alex is a huge Manchester United fan, inspired by greats of his homeland such as George Best, Harry Gregg and Norman Whiteside. Alex has a Master’s degree from Queen’s University Belfast and La Universitat Rovira i Virgili in Tarragona, Spain. Having lived in the country since 2011, Alex is The Peoples Person’s Spanish football expert and is fluent in both Spanish and Catalan. He dreams of witnessing a United captain triumphantly hoisting the Premier League and Champions League trophy in the air once more.
“He deserves the top”: Huge boost for United as dream midfield target destined to depart club this summer
Manchester United have ended the season well, all but securing third place with just two games left. A point against either Nottingham Forest or Brighton & Hove Albion would be enough to mathematically secure it. A draw between Aston Villa and Liverpool this Friday night would also do the trick, as they are the only two clubs who can catch United. Nonetheless, United are still keen to bolster their squad in the summer, particularly in the midfield area. Links With Casemiro leaving and Manuel Ugarte’s future at the club looking bleak, United are only really left with Kobbie Mainoo as a viable central midfielder. Therefore, it has been rumoured that United could seek up to three midfielders this window. They have been linked to numerous Premier League-based players such as Carlos Baleba, Mateus Fernandes, Sandro Tonali, Joao Gomes, and some from abroad such as Ederson at Atalanta. One midfielder to whom they have been linked all season is Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson, and many reports claim he is the club’s dream midfield target. The deal could be complicated by two major factors, though: the presence of Manchester City as rival suitors and his huge price tag that Forest will almost certainly set, especially now they are safe from relegation. Elliot Anderson could depart Speaking after Forest’s 1-1 draw with Newcastle United, their boss Vitor Pereira gave the biggest hint that the England international could be leaving the club. ESPN carry comments from the head coach after the match where he explained, “it’s difficult for me, and everybody, to understand what he is feeling inside of him.” He continued, “I believe that he is honouring his mother, going inside the pitch and running until the last metre, until the last breath. I cannot say [whether he will stay], I don’t have the answer. I know he deserves the top of the world.” Pereira also asserted that, “I know that he’s our player, and we need to enjoy him because I have worked with the top talent players, but to find a top player with this character is not easy. I’m not thinking about the next season. I’m thinking about finishing this season in the best position that we can.” Elliot Anderson stats vs Newcastle United Goals1 Expected goals (xG)0.13 Assists0 Expected assists (xA)0.03 Key passes0 Crosses (accurate)1 (0) Accurate passes62/74 (84%) Passes in opposition half (acc.)24/33 (73%) Passes in own half (acc.)38/41 (93%) Total shots3 Expected goals on target (xGOT)0.47 Shots on target1 Shots blocked0 Touches91 Unsuccessful touches1 Dribbles (successful)2 (1) Was fouled2 Possession lost17 Total carrying distance236.9 m Carries27 Progressive carries2 Total progression84.2 m Progressive carrying distance37.8 m Longest progressive carry20 m Def. contributions2 Tackles (won)1 (0) Interceptions0 Clearances1 Blocked shots0 Recoveries10 Ground duels (won)9 (4) Aerial duels (won)2 (1) Fouls2 Dribbled past1 Source: Sofascore Featured image Clive Mason via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Alex Browne Alex is a huge Manchester United fan, inspired by greats of his homeland such as George Best, Harry Gregg and Norman Whiteside. Alex has a Master’s degree from Queen’s University Belfast and La Universitat Rovira i Virgili in Tarragona, Spain. Having lived in the country since 2011, Alex is The Peoples Person’s Spanish football expert and is fluent in both Spanish and Catalan. He dreams of witnessing a United captain triumphantly hoisting the Premier League and Champions League trophy in the air once more.
Video: 1 goal, 100% dribbles completed: Rashford lights up El Clasico as Barcelona cruise to league title
Manchester United had one player in loan action on Sunday. To find out where all of Manchester United’s loanees are plying their trade this season, click here. Marcus Rashford Rashford’s future is still very much up in the air. He has had a successful season on loan at FC Barcelona, but the Catalans seem unprepared to commit to spending €30 million on him. The winger has made it clear that his preferred option would be to stay at FC Barcelona next season, and it is one issue the Red Devils will need to sort this summer. El Clasico goal Rashford has received criticism from Barcelona fans for his wastefulness in the Champions League defeat to Atletico Madrid, but he has come up big in league games. The Manchester United academy product has scored against Espanyol, Atletico Madrid, and now Real Madrid in the last months of the season. With Lamine Yamal injured and Raphinha on the bench, Rashford started for the Blaugrana. He made the perfect start to the match when he curled in a sublime free kick to give Barcelona the lead in just the ninth minute of play. In the 38th minute, he was played in behind the Real Madrid defence, but his goal-bound effort was well stopped by Thibaut Courtois. In the match, he completed 81% of his passes, and none of his eight crosses found an intended target. He also completed 100% of his dribbles, but only one of four ground duels in the match. The victory meant that FC Barcelona were crowned league champions, marking the first league title of Rashford’s career. Rashford may be in action again against Alaves on Wednesday night in the league. Marcus Rashford stats vs Real Madrid StatisticValue Goals1 Expected goals (xG)0.29 Assists0 Expected assists (xA)0.01 Key passes0 Crosses (accurate)8 (0) Accurate passes22/27 (81%) Passes in opposition half (acc.)14/19 (74%) Passes in own half (acc.)8/8 (100%) Long balls (accurate)1/1 (100%) Total shots2 Expected goals on target (xGOT)0.67 Shots on target2 Shots blocked0 Big chances missed1 Touches47 Unsuccessful touches2 Dribbles (successful)1 (1) Possession lost18 Total carrying distance123 m Carries11 Progressive carries4 Total progression44.7 m Progressive carrying distance76.4 m Longest progressive carry20.8 m Def. contributions0 Tackles (won)0 (0) Interceptions0 Clearances0 Blocked shots0 Recoveries4 Ground duels (won)4 (1) Dribbled past1 Featured image Paul Miller via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Alex Browne Alex is a huge Manchester United fan, inspired by greats of his homeland such as George Best, Harry Gregg and Norman Whiteside. Alex has a Master’s degree from Queen’s University Belfast and La Universitat Rovira i Virgili in Tarragona, Spain. Having lived in the country since 2011, Alex is The Peoples Person’s Spanish football expert and is fluent in both Spanish and Catalan. He dreams of witnessing a United captain triumphantly hoisting the Premier League and Champions League trophy in the air once more.
Man Utd Join Chelsea And Spurs In Making First ‘Contacts’ To Sign £69M Rated Fullback Who Could Replace Shaw
BACK David Tully May 11th 2026 This article contains affiliate links. We may earn a small commission on items purchased through this article, but that does not affect our editorial judgement. Man Utd are among the clubs who have made “exploratory contacts” about signing Sporting Lisbon left-back Maxi Araujo, according to reports in the Portuguese media. A BOLA claim that the Red Devils, Chelsea and Tottenham have joined Atletico Madrid and Juventus in pursuing the Uruguayan international ahead of the summer transfer window. Araujo has an €80m (£69m) release clause in his contract, and due to the sheer amount of interest in the player, Sporting are minded to hold out for that fee. However, a lot depends on how many teams actually make formal approaches for the 26-year-old at the end of the season. Currently, only enquiries have been lodged. Why are Man Utd interested in the defender? Director of Football Jason Wilcox has made signing a left-back one of his three priorities for the summer, along with a central midfielder and a left winger. Araujo could be a solution for two positions. He would provide stiff competition for Luke Shaw, having played most of his minutes on the left side of a back four for Sporting this campaign. However, the Uruguayan can also be deployed further up the pitch as a winger, much like Patrick Dorgu, so his positional flexibility makes him an attractive target. Buy Man Utd tickets from Viagogo here Another club is the favourite to sign Araujo A BOLA report that Atletico are currently “ahead in the race” for the player, with the La Liga side’s manager, Diego Simeone, said to be a big fan, but a lot will hinge on who is able to agree a transfer fee with Sporting. Considering what Araujo could offer United, in terms of his ability to play multiple roles, this is definitely a transfer story to keep a close eye on over the coming days and weeks. Want more news on Man Utd? Add Man U News as a preferred source on Google David Tully David has worked as a football reporter for the last fifteen years. Having started as an intern at Snack Media, he then went on to become a freelancer, working on various different sites. At the start of 2023, he took up his current role as content writer for the Football News Network.
