The report claims a Manchester United official attended Uruguay's 2-2 draw with Cape Verde and was left impressed. Araújo has contributed two goals and an assist across his first two tournament matches for Marcelo Bielsa's side, and Uruguay face Spain in their final group game needing a result to advance.
Sporting are understood to be holding out for €60 million. Record describes United as "tightening their grip" on a potential deal, though the club have not confirmed any interest.
Araújo, 25, joined Sporting from Barcelona B in 2021 and has developed into one of the most effective wide midfielders in the Portuguese top flight, combining high pressing intensity with directness in transition. He made over 40 appearances for Sporting last season and was a key figure in the club's Primeira Liga title campaign.
United's scouting operation at the World Cup has been active across multiple positions. Michael Carrick is known to be targeting a wide midfielder alongside the central additions already made this summer, and Araújo's ability to operate across a high-energy midfield line fits the profile. Whether the club is prepared to meet Sporting's valuation is the question that will determine how far talks advance.
Sporting finished third in the Primeira Liga last season and will compete in the Champions League next term. They are not in a position where they need to sell and will not move quickly unless their valuation is met. At €60 million, Araújo would represent a significant outlay for United — but one that Carrick's Champions League qualification has made financially possible.