Premier League rivals Liverpool and Manchester United are still said to be options for Atletico Madrid midfielder Saul Niguez, despite rumours of a move to Barcelona.
The Spain international – who was a notable absentee from Luis Enrique’s Euro 2020 squad – signed a nine-year deal with his current club in 2017, yet now appears set for a departure following a frustrating few years under Diego Simeone.
The 26-year-old had previously been a regular starter after breaking into the first-team back in 2014, although has found game time harder to come by in recent seasons, the versatile midfielder losing his place in the side during the club’s surge towards the La Liga title last term.
Recent rumours have suggested that he could be set for a move to Barcelona as part of a swap deal involving Antoine Griezmann, the Frenchman potentially set for a return to the Spanish capital following his underwhelming stint at the Nou Camp.
La Blaugrana are currently facing a financial crisis and are keen to offload a number of their high earners, including Griezmann, in order to lessen the wage bill, although still appear keen to strengthen the side at the same time, hence why a swap deal for Saul could work.
The Catalan giants have already brought in Memphis Depay, Sergio Aguero and Eric Garcia on free transfers, yet after missing out on Gini Wijnaldum to PSG, a midfield alternative could be their next target.
However, according to Spanish outlet AS, a move to Barcelona is far from certain, with both Liverpool and Manchester United remaining as potential destinations.
Liverpool are believed to be on the lookout to add a midfielder to their ranks as they look for a suitable replacement for Wijnaldum.
Man United are also an option as they look to bolster their midfield options, while also adding depth should Paul Pogba refuse to extend his deal at Old Trafford, which currently has just one year to run.
With a number of club’s circling for Saul’s signature, his agent Joshua Barnett has not exactly offered any hints as to where he will end up, insisting “nothing has been decided.
“Saul will do with his future what is best for Saul. Nothing has been decided, Saul has as many options to stay as he does to leave”.
