Manchester United have reportedly renewed their interest in signing Atletico Madrid midfielder Saul Niguez.
The Spanish midfielder is a target for the Premier League side, who are looking to strengthen a few positions in their team, but he will cost around £70 million.
Daily Star have reported that following the Spanish side’s exit from the Champions League, those behind the scenes at Manchester United are optimistic about making the move happen this summer.
Saul came through the ranks at Atletico, before making his senior debut in 2012. The 25-year-old midfielder, who has played 19 times for the Spanish national team, has made nearly 300 appearances for Atletico Madrid in all competitions.
Saul still has six years remaining on his current contract at Atletico Madrid, having signed a long-term deal with the club in 2017.
Saul Niguez to Manchester United – A top midfield addition?
Bruno Fernandes’ arrival in the January transfer window has revitalised the Manchester United midfield, and they have become a lot more creative. Paul Pogba’s return from injury has also helped the cause, as he has brought maturity, experience, and a good passing range.
But, there are still some doubts about the midfielder who can play alongside Pogba. Experienced Serbian midfielder Nemanja Matic had a good run of games, and was key to United’s great run of form since football resumed, but he has also been caught out at times.
Fred and Scott McTominay had an excellent first half of the season, but their chances have been few and far between since the return of football.
The signing of Saul would make the Manchester United midfield one of the best in the Premier League, and he could form a brilliant partnership with Pogba and Fernandes.
The Spaniard is an all-round player who can defend well and add tenacity in midfield. The 25-year-old is a hard-working player who has played in many roles; as a central midfielder, defensive midfielder, a wide midfielder, as well as at full-back.
Great in the air and tenacious on the ground, Saul is an excellent screen to have in front of the back four. The Spaniard averaged 2.7 tackles per game in La Liga, while averaging 3.4 aerial duels in the 2019-20 season.
Saul is more mobile than Matic, and would offer protection to the backline to allow the likes of Pogba and Fernandes to be even bigger threats up the field. Saul would be an excellent addition to the Manchester United squad, and will be a big upgrade on the options that Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has at his disposal now.
Stats via Whoscored
