Transfer Centre

Manchester United 'view Saul Niguez as Paul Pogba replacement'

By Barney Corkhill, Editor | 25 July 2021

Man United 'view Saul Niguez as Pogba replacement'

Manchester United reportedly identify Atletico Madrid midfielder Saul Niguez as a possible replacement for Paul Pogba, should the Frenchman leave Old Trafford.

Manchester United have reportedly lined up Atletico Madrid midfielder Saul Niguez as a possible replacement for Paul Pogba this summer.

Pogba's contract at Old Trafford expires next summer, and reports have suggested that the France international is unwilling to pen fresh terms at the club.

Man United are therefore considering cashing in on him this summer rather than losing him on a free transfer in 2022, with Paris Saint-Germain thought to be leading the race for his signature.

The uncertainty over the 28-year-old's future has seen Man United begin their search for a potential replacement, and The Mirror reports that they have identified Saul as an option.

Man United have been linked with the Atletico man on numerous occasions in past transfer windows, but a £128m buyout clause in his contract - coupled with his status as a key first-team player for Diego Simeone - meant that such a move was a non-starter.

However, Atletico are now reportedly open to the idea of selling Saul, with Liverpool also thought to be interested in the 26-year-old.

Saul came through the ranks at Los Rojiblancos and has gone on to make 337 appearances for the club in total, scoring 43 goals.

The Spain international's contract at the Wanda Metropolitano does not run out until 2026, but Atletico are willing to consider cashing in on one of their star assets this summer.