For most of the summer, Saul Niguez looked destined to seal a move away from Atletico Madrid, with Chelsea, Manchester United and Liverpool rumoured to be interested. With just hours left until the transfer window slams shut, however, a deal is now off the table, according to Fabrizio Romano.
The news comes after Chelsea failed to respond to Atletico Madrid when the terms were set, with Jules Kounde taking priority. With that said, it now looks almost certain that Saul will stay put in Spain with Atletico Madrid.
Saul Niguez Chelsea Deal Now Off the Table
Chelsea Could Have Formed Best Midfield in the World
Keeping Saul should only help Atletico Madrid in their pursuit to retain their La Liga crown. He has become a crucial part of Diego Simeone’s efficient machine, outclassing and out passing most midfielders in the world. Such is his ability on the ball, it’s a shame that we will not see the Spaniard In the Premier League this season. At Chelsea, he would have been the perfect partner for recent UEFA Men’s Player of the Year Jorginho.
As for the rest of the Premier League, they’ll be breathing a sigh of relief. The Blues already have N’Golo Kante, Kovacic, the aforementioned Jorginho, and Mason Mount to choose from. Add Saul to that midfield, and it’s arguably the best in the world.
When it became clear that Liverpool and Manchester United were not going to sign the Spanish midfielder, it was also a shock. Manchester United’s need for another midfielder, although perhaps a more defence-minded one, is no secret. The game against Wolves, which they were extremely fortunate to win, highlighted that need.
Meanwhile, Liverpool, having lost Gini Wijnaldum, could have done with another star midfielder. In the end, however, Saul has stayed at Atletico Madrid, with another La Liga title in mind this season.
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