Liverpool are prepared to fork out €40 million to secure the services of Saul Niguez, who is also courted by Manchester United and Chelsea.
According to AS, Liverpool are about to make their first official attempt to sign Saul Niguez. The midfielder’s uncertain future at Atletico Madrid has made him a hot prospect in the market, with multiple English clubs including Manchester United and Chelsea interested in his services.
Saul’s current contract at Atletico Madrid expires in 2026, with the player having a €150 million release clause. However, Los Colchoneros are ready to cash in for a lower price, with Liverpool now testing the waters with a bid of around €40 million.
The report suggests that Atleti are holding out for more, at least exceeding the €40 million mark. It appears they are hoping to use the midfielder’s sale to inject some money into the club’s books following some financial difficulties while also securing the services of a new midfielder. Another Liverpool target Denis Zakaria has emerged as one of the targets for Diego Simeone this summer.
Once regarded as the future of Spanish football, Saul Niguez has endured a rapid fall from grace over the past 12 months. His performances have been underwhelming, with the midfielder falling behind Marcos Llorente and Thomas Lemar in the pecking order last season. He was not even selected in Spain’s squad for the European Championship.
However, that does not deter Liverpool, who are in the market for a new midfielder as well. The Reds have had to deal with Georginio Wijnaldum’s move to Paris Saint-Germain this summer, leaving Jurgen Klopp desperate for reinforcements in the middle of the park.
LOSC Lille’s rising star Renato Sanches has been heavily linked with an imminent switch to Anfield. But spending just a little over the €40 million mark for Saul might turn out to be a better investment due to the Spaniard’s vast experience at the highest level of football.
Liverpool, though, may have to be swift in their approach, especially with Chelsea and Manchester United, also interested in his services. The Blues, in particular, are determined to add more quality in midfield as Thomas Tuchel hopes to mount a title challenge next season. Saul has emerged as an option as the Atleti midfielder offers an excellent work ethic and aggression in the second line of press.
On the other hand, Manchester United are hoping to find an upgrade over Fred and Scott McTominay. In addition to Saul, they have been linked with his teammate Llorente, although he might be a bit unrealistic target for the Red Devils this summer. An intriguing summer, therefore, beckons Saul and it remains to be seen if Liverpool can beat United and Chelsea once they make their opening move.
