Saul to United: Manchester United are set to enter the race to sign Atletico Midfielder Saul Niguez, and face competition from Real Madrid.
Saul Niguez is one of Atletico de Madrid’s most important and indispensable players in the last few years. The Spain international has developed tremendously under the watchful eyes of Diego Simeone and turned into one of the world’s best midfielders.
In the latest international break, his performances were eye-catching as he managed to notch a goal each against England and Croatia in the UEFA Nations League. Luis Enrique displayed his faith in the 23 year old and will certainly reward him with more time.
Lately, reports have emerged about European giants plotting a transfer to lure Saul away from the Wanda Metropolitano. Manchester United and Real Madrid are the parties who have been credited with interest in the player.
He last caught the eye in the transfer market with his contract extension of nine years with Atletico Madrid in 2017. He now has a contract with the Spanish outlet until June 2026 when he will turn 31.
In addition to the contract, Atletico also chose to add a lucrative release clause of 150 million euros on his contract. The Red Devils are looking real buyers for Saul and will have to break the appended amount.
This could be a move highly dependent on Paul Pogba, who has been linked with a move to Spain with his agent Mino Raiola apparently having agreed to transfer him to Real Madrid or Barcelona in the next summer.
Real Madrid could also splash money on a marquee signing that has been pending for a lot of years, even despite Cristiano Ronaldo’s exit. Saul was a graduate of Real Madrid’s academy but is now following his trade on the other side of town.
Also read: PL 2018/19: Watford vs Manchester United prediction
He has stated that he will be focused on football right now and not be bothered by offers which come his way. “I have fulfilled a boyhood dream,” Niguez said after scoring for Spain in his hometown of Elche against Croatia.
“Everything went better than what I expected, then what I could have dreamed, and of course when the goal went in it was very exciting for me. Many things have changed for Spain now, we want to hurt our opponents in the most effective possible way.”
