JAKARTA - The good performance of Atletico Madrid midfielder Saul Niguez when he beat Liverpool in the Champions League last month made an impression on the Reds' rivals, Manchester United. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's club have made the Spaniard their long-term transfer target.
A report in the US newspaper Diario recently said United were ready to pour out 80 million euros in cash for Saul. The Sun even stated that they specifically watched Saul during the game at Anfield.
The midfielder has a long-term contract at Atleti until 2026 with a release clause of 150 million euros. The Red Devils do think this price is very high, but with Paul Pogba leaving Old Trafford in the near future, United insist on looking for options to increase their midfield strength.
However, coach Diego Simeone has confirmed that he will hold back Saul's departure at the Wanda Metropolitano. The Argentine is seeking to maintain his first-team squad after a series of players left the club this summer.
Diego Godin, Antoine Griezmann, Filipe Luis, Rodri and Gabi Hernandez all left Los Colchoneros in the last year.
Meanwhile, Arsenal are reportedly only 'one step away' from signing midfielder Thomas Partey after offering a € 50 million release clause. Corriere dello Sport reports, the future of the Ghana national player is now in the hands of the Gunners.
Mikel Arteta's side are said to be prioritizing the midfielder's move to London. Not without reason, of course, like Saul, Partey also played an important role for Atleti in their Champions League victory over Liverpool.
But in general, Partey's performances have been quite impressive this season. He has made 172 appearances, 35 of which have played this season. Now, Los Colchoneros are interested in extending their contract in the Spanish capital.
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