According to Fabrizio Romano, Chelsea have landed the deal to sign Saul Niguez. They have reached a loan agreement worth around €5 million, and the player has already agreed to personal terms. He will be in London soon to sign the contract, and the move could soon be officiated, making him the last real coup for the Blues of this summer transfer window.
Saul Niguez: A Midfielder In Decline?
Saul Niguez has somewhat had a “Hector Bellerin” treatment at Atletico Madrid in recent years. Although he is considered as one of Diego Simeone’s favourite players, his progress has been halted over the past couple of seasons due to injury and numerous fitness problems. It has affected his form and footballing abilities.
The 26-year-old’s game time at Wanda Metropolitano had greatly declined last season, with the midfielder notching up a little over 2,000 minutes of league football. He was also involved in a total of only three goals in 33 league appearances, despite being employed in an attacking role more often than not.
Saul’s underwhelming performances saw him falling behind Marcos Llorente in the pecking order at Atletico Madrid last season. And after the arrival of players like Rodrigo de Paul and Matheus Cunha this summer, his long-term future at the club is under severe doubt, which the loan move to Chelsea could confirm.
Nevertheless, the Spaniard is still highly regarded for his technical prowess, versatility and aggression. Although he has not been able to perform at the highest level, he is more than capable of reinvigorating himself under the right leadership.
How Does He Fit In At Chelsea?
Saul Niguez’s reported move to Chelsea makes a lot of sense from a tactical perspective. Despite having two of Europe’s most in-form midfielders in N’Golo Kante and Jorginho, Thomas Tuchel was needing a more attacking-minded midfield player who can help link the midfield to attack.
Saul’s presence in the side could do just that, with the Spaniard floating in a free-flowing role in the middle of the park, allowing the likes of Kai Havertz and Mason Mount to unleash the more attacking side of their game.
Not to mention, the 26-year-old is extremely versatile and can be considered as not only an alternative for the two central midfielders but also the playmakers like Mount and Havertz. His technical superiority and a direct style of play tune in well with Tuchel’s tactical philosophy as well.
Therefore, Chelsea fans will be hoping that Saul Niguez can unleash his best upon his likely arrival at London this season. The Blues will certainly need to be a little patient with his development, but the player certainly has what it takes to help make Chelsea a strong title favourites this term.
