Liverpool are reportedly set to ramp up their pursuit of Atletico Madrid midfielder Saul Niguez this summer.
The Reds have been linked with a host of potential Gini Wijnaldum replacements in recent weeks and could be stepping up their efforts as pre-season fast approaches.
Jurgen Klopp will welcome a majority of the first-team squad back to Kirkby next Monday as preparations begin for the 2021/22 campaign.
According to Atleti Francia on Twitter, the Anfield club are aiming to do with the acquisition of Saul.
Twitter:
INFO ATLETIFRANCIA
Liverpool va passer à l’offensive très prochainement et offrir 40M€ pour Saul Niguez.
→ Off… https://t.co/c7I7Du0tsy (@AtletiFrancia)
Translated, the account claims Liverpool are preparing a bid of €40million (£34.4million) for the midfielder, an offer that could promt Atletico to accept.
The 26-year-old has been the heartbeat of Diego Simeone’s side for some time, amassing 337 appearances since switching from city rivals Real Madrid as a teenager.
During a La Liga title-winning campaign last term, the 19 times capped Spain international made 33 league outings – earning an average Sofascore rating of 6.87.
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Signing the versatile Spaniard would certainly fill the void left by Wijnaldum in Klopp’s squad.
Despite missing five games last season with a muscle issue, previously the ace had missed just two matches across two full campaigns.
Valued at £36million and under contract until 2026 at the Wanda Metropolitano (Transfermarkt), the mooted price tag would represent shrewd business for a player potentially looking for a new challenge.
Predominantly an out and out central midfielder, Saul has also deputised on either wing as well as playing both in more advanced and defensive roles, underlining his true versatility.
Moreover, the Elche-born star has previously praised Klopp’s side, describing Liverpool as an ‘incredible’ outfit.
