Chelsea and Manchester United plot loan moves for Atlético’s Saúl Ñíguez
Chelsea are pondering a late loan transfer for Atlético Madrid midfielder Saúl Ñíguez, although they may face competition from Manchester United for his services.
Before the transfer market closes next Tuesday, Atlético Madrid are willing to allow Sal depart on a season-long loan, heightening the likelihood of the Spain international relocating to England.
If Thomas Tuchel determines he needs more depth in central midfield, Chelsea may increase their interest. United, who are also interested in Rennes midfielder Eduardo Camavinga, have not ruled out signing the 26-year-old, according to Spanish sources.
Saul is regarded as one of Europe's top midfielders and has developed into a key player for Atlético Madrid after rising through the ranks of the club's academy, assisting Diego Simeone's team in winning La Liga last season. His future at Atlético has been in doubt for some time, and he could be looking for a new challenge after being left out of Spain's Euro 2020 squad.
Chelsea may see the opportunity to sign Sal on loan as a way to put an end to the uncertainty surrounding the futures of Andreas Christensen and Antonio Rüdiger by providing both central defenders new contracts. Chelsea are unlikely to spend a lot of money on a midfielder this summer, as West Ham have priced Declan Rice out of the picture. After loaning Billy Gilmour to Norwich, Tuchel may decide he needs additional competition alongside Mateo Kovacic, N'Golo Kanté, and Jorginho.
Kanté has had injury difficulties in the last two years, and Tuchel admits that he overworked Jorginho at the conclusion of last season. Tuchel is still interested in Sevilla centre-back Jules Koundé. With Ross Barkley, Danny Drinkwater, and Tiémoué Bakayoko all available, a deal for Sal could hinge on Chelsea moving some of their peripheral midfielders before the window closes. Milan are interested in Bakayoko, but Tuchel's assessment of Ethan Ampadu and Ruben Loftus-ability Cheek's to cover for Kanté, Kovacic, and Jorginho remains to be seen.
Chelsea is also willing to transfer Kurt Zouma to West Ham in order to make room for Kounde's arrival. West Ham are willing to pay £25 million for Zouma, but his wage demands have put the deal in jeopardy. If he is to make the journey across London, the 26-year-old has requested a weekly wage of £130,000.
Meanwhile, West Ham are interested in CSKA Moscow midfielder Nikola Vlasic. The Hammers are yet to make a permanent signing this summer. Jesse Lingard, who impressed on loan at the London Stadium last season, might be replaced by the Croatian international. West Ham are interested in signing Lingard on a permanent basis, but United's £25 million asking price has scared them off.
Meanwhile, West Ham are interested in CSKA Moscow midfielder Nikola Vlasic. The Hammers are yet to make a permanent signing this summer. Jesse Lingard, who impressed on loan at the London Stadium last season, might be replaced by the Croatian international. West Ham are interested in signing Lingard on a permanent basis, but United's £25 million asking price has scared them off.
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