Saul Niguez in action against Lokomotiv Moscow in the Champions League (Getty Images)
As per Mundo Deportivo (h/t The Express), Manchester United are queuing up to sign Atletico Madrid star Saul Niguez, who is attracting interest from several top European clubs.
Saul, 25, came through the ranks of Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid’s youth system before getting promoted to the former club’s senior team. After initially struggling to break into the first team, he was sent on loan to Rayo Vallecano.
Since his return, he has been a regular starter under Diego Simeone and has helped his side reach the Champions League finals in the 2015-16 season. He has been one of the best midfielders in La Liga for the past few years and his performances have been impressive.
Saul was a part of Spain U19 side which won the European Championship in 2013 and rose through the youth ranks to become one of the most consistent players for the nation’s senior team. He has already featured in 37 games for his club this season, scoring 4 goals.
Meanwhile, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has brought a change in United’s fortunes this season after struggling to find their way to the top. They have been excellent in the past few months and have gone unbeaten in their last 11 games across all competitions.
The arrival of Bruno Fernandes has brought life into their dull attack and the Portuguese international has been a breath of fresh air to the team. However, the Red Devils have been inconsistent throughout the campaign and the manager should bring in reinforcements to form a strong squad for next season.
In the midfield, Scott McTominay’s return from injury has been a big boost and Fred is one of the most improved players this term. He has been a lone warrior in the middle of the park in the absence of the Scotsman and Paul Pogba. But they have limited options on the bench and therefore, the manager should bring in established midfielders to the squad.
In that case, Saul Niguez would be a suitable option for United, who have only Nemanja Matic as the other option. The 25-year-old is one of the most accomplished players in Spain and has an experience of 286 first-team games for the La Liga outfit. In the process, he has notched up 38 goals and 18 assists for the side.
Saul has been a vital cog in Simeone’s side for the last few years and his goal against Liverpool in the first leg of the knockout round in the Champions League gave an advantage for them before the return fixture started.
The Spanish international would be a huge boost for United boss Solskjaer as he could form a perfect partnership with Fred and McTominay in the middle of the park. He is a talented footballer and can work wonders for any side, given his abilities.
With their midfield clearly needing a new face, United should go for a player of Saul’s calibre. He would certainly add depth and quality to the team if he continues with the same form.
Therefore, the Red Devils must make no mistake in luring the Spaniard to Old Trafford in the summer.
