Saul Niguez is expected to push for a summer transfer to Manchester United, as claimed by The Mirror (via Daily Star).
The Atletico Madrid star helped his team to end a successful campaign by winning the La Liga crown for the first time in 7 years. Niguez was an important member of the squad as he went on to make 39 appearances in all competitions this season. After spending his whole career with Atletico Madrid, it appears that the Spanish international is seeking a new challenge.
The report further claims that the 26-year old has a buyout clause of around £60 million. However, the club is in desperate need of funds as they look to bolster their squad to mount a robust title defence. The Covid-19 pandemic has had huge negative financial consequences for the club. As a result, they may be open to offers around the £40 million mark as well.
Miguel Angel Gil, Atletico’s director-general, has already indicated that Saul Niguez might be allowed to leave the club this summer. Other than Manchester United, other European giants like Juventus and Paris-Saint Germain are also considering making a move for the midfielder.
West Ham United star Declan Rice is one name that is repeatedly being linked with a move to the Theatre of Dreams. But Hammers’ boss David Moyes has already made it clear that they have no intention of selling their most prized asset as the London team prepare to compete in the Europa League next season.
Is Saul Niguez the midfielder Ole is looking for?
Saul Niguez has over 330 appearances under his belt for Atletico Madrid. He is a player who is known to put in a disciplined shift at the centre of the park. He possesses a great passing range and can dictate the pace of the game from the midfield.
However, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer might still be doubtful over his ability to safeguard the defence on his own. If Solskjaer wants to play Bruno Fernandes and Paul Pogba together, he will be requiring a holding midfielder who can stay in front of the defence without being afraid of putting in tackles or engaging in duels. Can Saul Niguez be that powerful defensive midfielder? We are not sure.
He is not an outright defensive midfielder like Rice or as gifted as Kante. Even after that, the Red Devils’ effort to strengthen their squad would be enticed by a £40 million price tag for a player of his calibre. If the player arrives at Old Trafford, it will be intriguing to see how Solskjaer utilizes Donny Van De Beek, Fred and Scott McTominay in the team. The only way is to share minutes on the pitch and that might frustrate a few of the players.
And it seems that the deal might be too much trouble given that the player doesn’t necessarily fix any of United’s current teething issues.