Man Utd start talks to sign in-demand defender

Manchester United are already in the market for Michael Carrick‘s first signing, and that could come in the form of £70m defender Maxi Araujo this summer.

Man Utd make approach in Araujo race

What looked set to be another season of disappointment was somehow salvaged by the arrival of Michael Carrick. The Red Devils are now a Champions League side again and managed to finish as high as third by the time the final whistle sounded against Brighton & Hove Albion. For the first time since Erik ten Hag’s first season, things are looking up.

INEOS’ recruitment has played a large part in that revival. They splashed the cash on Bryan Mbeumo, Benjamin Sesko, Senne Lammens, and Matheus Cunha. All have been a great success.

So, it’s no surprise that they’re looking to spend big yet again one year later. According to Caught Offside, Man United have launched an enqiry to sign Araujo from Sporting Club. The left-back has a release clause worth £70m and has appeared on the radar of several Premier League sides.

Given that £70m is a hefty fee, there’s also a chance that Sporting commence negotiations at a lower price in the coming months in a huge boost for those at Old Trafford.

In terms of quality, it’s easy to see why Araujo is on Man United’s radar. Although Luke Shaw is coming off a campaign in which he started every game, he is now 30 years old and United must consider the future of the left-back position.

That is where the South American could come into play. The 26-year-old is at the peak of his powers and just enjoyed an excellent campaign in Portugal as a flying fullback. All signs point towards a player who would thrive as Carrick’s first signing at the club.

Roy Keane hits back at Bruno Fernandes

Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes accused Roy Keane of telling a “lie” about his pursuit of the Premier League assists record.

Fernandes claimed the outright record for assists in a single season by taking his tally to 21 in Sunday’s 3-0 win at Brighton.

United great Keane had suggested the Portugal international was prioritising individual glory over the team’s interests. Fernandes responded by saying Keane had put untrue “words in my mouth”.

Despite appearing to have misinterpreted Fernandes’ comments, former United and Republic of Ireland skipper Keane seemingly stoked the feud by posting on Instagram: “Too much attention makes a donkey think he’s a lion.”

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