Coral’s Rumour Reel: Manchester United call for Saul
Published:
Lee Gormley | January 12, 2016
Better call Saul
Louis van Gaal is hoping to add firepower to his Manchester United ranks during this January transfer window and his search for a new midfielder could soon be over, as the Red Devils reportedly talk to Atletico Madrid regarding a move for Saul Niguez.
The 21-year-old is one of La Liga leaders Atleti’s latest rising stars, with boss Diego Simeone keen to retain his services, but Man Utd are hoping to tie up a deal for the Spain Under-21 international swiftly.
Saul is believed to hold an £18m release clause in his current contract with Simeone’s Mattress Makers but the Red Devils are prepared to meet such an amount in order to acquire the talented Spanish starlet this winter.
Red Devils delving into market
The Atleti maestro has represented his country since Under-16 level and was previously called up by first-team boss Vicente del Bosque for a Euro 2016 qualifier, though he was an unused sub.
Saul would represent the fourth Atletico star to depart for the Premier League in two yeas if a Man Utd deal was struck. Toby Alderweireld joined Spurs from the Spanish league leaders last summer after a successful loan at Southampton, while Diego Costa and Felipe Luis arrived at Chelsea before that.
As well as seeking the Spaniard’s signature, Van Gaal hasn’t given up in the club’s pursuit of Lazio playmaker Felipe Anderson, who has long been tipped for a move to Old Trafford.
The Brazil international has starred in the Serie A in recent campaigns but his club maintain that United have not made a bid this month, despite reportedly turning down a £37m offer last summer.
Gunners look to bolster strikeforce
Arsene Wenger is also hoping to strengthen his squad ahead of a Premier League title charge, as his Gunners seek to clinch a first domestic crown in 12 years, after encouragingly climbing to the summit at this stage.
The north Londoners are in hot pursuit of Celta Vigo and Spain frontman Nolito, with the La Liga club holding out for an offer in the region of £13.4m for their 29-year-old hitman.
Arsenal have old forward links with Celta Vigo, having previously let former attacker Carlos Vela join the Spanish outfit on loan back in 2006, as they attempt to acquire further firepower this month for a long season ahead.
Meanwhile, another former Gunners striker Nicklas Bendtner could return to England from current employers Wolfsburg, with Newcastle United seemingly interested in his services as they bid to beat the drop this term.
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