Saul Niguez is on the verge of leaving Atletico Madrid, according to reports, with Manchester United and Chelsea extremely interested in bringing the Spanish midfielder to the Premier League in a season-long loan move.
The 26-year-old, regarded by many as one of the best midfielders in Europe, joined the club at 13. He has since made over 300 appearances for Los Colchoneros after making his first-team debut in a 2012 Europa League game against Besiktas.
He also played a key part in the club's La Liga title win in 2020/21 but after 13 years at the club, it appears Niguez is close to sealing a move away from the Wanda Metropolitano stadium, with a transfer 'imminent', report Spanish publication AS.
It is believed Chelsea opened talks with Niguez 'days ago', according to journalist Fabrizio Romano, who says there is currently an official loan bid on the table with an option to buy. But Thomas Tuchel's side aren't the only club interested in his services.
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Manchester United are also keen on bringing the centre-midfielder to Old Trafford, with AS claiming 'the club with the most ballots at the moment is United, who are beating Chelsea' - although recent activity from the Blues suggests they could wrap up a deal.
Fabrizio Romano, meanwhile, reports United have enquired about the player in the last 24 hours as the transfer window slams shut next Tuesday.
Last week, former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand said Niguez would be a 'perfect fit' at Old Trafford.
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"I think if the right player becomes available for the right price, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer will go and get him," Ferdinand said on the FIVE YouTube channel.
"The problem is who is out there and who could be a good fit? Saul Niguez would be a perfect fit and his asking price was £160m a couple of years ago, now it's more like £40-50m.
Ferdinand also tipped Declan Rice for a move to United this summer.
"I think Rice would be a massive addition to this squad. I'm a massive fan of his," he added. "I would love to see him keep progressing.
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"He was brilliant for England in the summer. I think if West Ham keep him they've done unbelievably well. I think he does well staying at West Ham or if he goes."
Do you think Niguez would shine in the Premier League if he were to join either United or Chelsea? Who is the best fit?
Let us know in the comments.
Featured Image Credit: PATopics: Chelsea, Manchester United, Transfers, Atletico Madrid, Premier League, La Liga
