Saul Niguez: All you need to know about Spanish midfielder
Manchester United have reportedly taken the lead over Chelsea and Liverpool in the race to sign Saul Niguez and the player could leave the Wanda Metropolitano this week. Diego Simeone has been open to letting the Spaniard leave the club all summer and at one point, Saul was close to joining Barcelona in a swap deal involving Antoine Griezmann.
Negotiations soon proved complicated though, causing the deal to collapse but still, Saul represents an opportunity for a number of Premier League clubs in the final week of the transfer window.
Earlier this summer, Liverpool were intensively linked the 26-year-old following the departure of Gini Wijnaldum to PSG on a free transfer.
It soon became clear that Liverpool's interest was nothing more than speculation though and the Reds remain unlikely to sign another central midfielder.
Chelsea and Manchester United, however, are more serious about potentially adding Saul to their ranks.
We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our Privacy Policy
Atletico have now agreed to sign some extra cover in the form Hertha Berlin's Matheus Cunha.
Although the Brazilian is predominately an attacker, he can also play on the left-side of midfield, where Saul has occasionally been deployed under Simeone.
Everton had attempted to hijack the deal late on but Atletico have now agreed a fee with the Bundesliga club and the player has accepted the move.
Surprisingly, Saul has started both of Atletico's La Liga matches so far against Celta Vigo and Elche respectively.
Do you want an exclusive pre-season preview for YOUR club - both in your inbox and through your letterbox? Head over here to find out more and secure your copy.
Saul Niguez could be about to wave goodbye to Atletico (Image: GETTY)
New signing Rodrigo De Paul is expected to permanently replace Saul in the starting XI.
Manchester United's pursuit of Saul could ultimately hinge on outgoings though.
The club are waiting to see if West Ham propose a suitable offer for Jesse Lingard following his impressive loan spell in east London last season.
Meanwhile, United have dismissed links to Corentin Tolisso and Monaco midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni, who has also been linked with Chelsea.