Atletico Madrid midfielder Saul Niguez has been linked to the Premier League for a while now, with Manchester United and Liverpool both rumoured to have made moves in the past. But as we approach the end of the window on transfer deadline day, it’s Chelsea who could be giving the Spaniard his first taste of English football.
What’s happened?
This deal looked dead in the water this morning, with renowned journalist Fabrizio Romano stating that Atletico had blocked the move. That now appears to have changed with the player keen to leave, but any deal could still be dependant on whether or not Atleti can get a replacement in before the window closes.
Saúl deal since yesterday night is completely blocked, no green light from Atletico Madrid. Chelsea are convinced it’s gonna definitely collapse. Nothing agreed for Jules Koundé yet too. 🔵 #CFC #DeadlineDay
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 31, 2021
As is the norm at the moment, various sources are reporting that the Blues are lining up a loan deal with an option to buy for the 26-year-old playmaker. With Billy Gilmour loaned out and N’Golo Kante in and out with injuries, Thomas Tuchel clearly sees Saul as a great chance to add strength in depth in the centre of the park.
🚨 EXCL: Chelsea actively working on deal to sign Atletico Madrid midfielder Saul Niguez. Negotiations are for a loan with option to buy. 26yo Spain international contracted at #Atleti until 2026 but optimism all round that he now joins #CFC @TheAthleticUK https://t.co/GXDcW4c5xD
— David Ornstein (@David_Ornstein) August 31, 2021
All English Premier League
Should this deal happen, the fans at Stamford Bridge will certainly be in for a treat.
What would Saul bring?
According to FBRef, in 336 appearances for Atletico Madrid, Saul bagged 43 goals and 17 assists, which is not a bad output for someone who played the majority of their games in a deeper midfield role under defensive coach Diego Simeone.
He’s not limited to that position though, having played on either wing or in a more advanced midfield role when required. That level of versatility will be particularly attractive to tactician Tuchel.
Goals and assists can be misleading statistics for a player like Saul though. He rarely gives the ball away and works incredibly hard for his team, a prerequisite for any Simeone player. He’s also well versed in winning trophies, having played a key role in last season’s La Liga win. That winner’s medal now sits alongside two Europa Leagues, a UEFA Super Cup, a Spanish Super Cup and a Copa del Rey.
This is a deal that could go down to the wire, but if Chelsea can persuade Atleti to part ways with Saul, it’ll be a very smart piece of business indeed.