In a recent print edition (July 26, Page 7), AS claimed that Liverpool are prepared to launch a €50m offer for Atletico Madrid midfielder Saul Niguez this summer. It is understood that the Reds are ready to move in for the Spanish playmaker with Atletico Madrid open to selling him in this off-season (transcripted and translated by sportslens).
Saul’s Successful Campaign In Spanish Football
Saul enjoyed a solid campaign with the Madrid giants recently when he helped them win the La Liga title by producing a run of impressive displays at the heart of Diego Simeone’s midfield. The 26-year-old appeared in 41 matches for Atletico last season, finding the back of the net twice while also picking up one assist and 12 yellow cards in the process across all fronts.
The Spaniard did a little bit of everything at the centre of the park as he averaged 1.7 tackles, 0.6 interceptions, 0.9 clearances, 1.0 shots, 0.7 key passes and 0.5 dribbles per 90 minutes in the Spanish top-flight. He even distributed the ball with conviction after completing 84.4% of his attempted passes in league football (stats via whoscored).
The Elche-born talent is still under contract at the Wanda Metropolitano until the summer of 2026, so Liverpool would have to make a big-money move if they are serious about acquiring his services this summer. Tabling an offer of €50m could be a shrewd move by the Reds as Saul is undeniably worth that pricetag based on his excellent contributions at the Spanish capital in recent seasons.
Is Saul The Right Choice For The Reds This Summer?
Saul is one of the best passers in European football and has got the ability to unlock the opponent’s defence with a killer pass in the attacking third. He has a wide variety of passes in his locker and can keep possession moving without breaking a sweat in midfield.
The Spanish sensation is also proficient at getting stuck in with a few tackles to make life difficult for the opposition at the centre of the park. However, he needs to be more productive in the final third if he wants to succeed at a club like Liverpool in the future.
Saul would add a lot of quality to Klopp’s midfield department which makes him an excellent choice for Liverpool to pursue during this summer transfer window. He will serve as a decent replacement for Georginio Wijnaldum as he would bring similar traits to the Reds squad. Hence, Klopp should try everything he can to lure the Atletico star to Anfield before the transfer window slams shut at the end of next month.
