Chelsea and Liverpool are both “keen” on Atletico Madrid midfielder Saul Niguez but any deal depends on the Spaniard’s move to Barcelona falling through, according to Fabrizio Romano.
The reliable reporter claims that Barca are currently in talks over a swap deal, with Antoine Griezmann moving in the other direction, but the Catalan club want money (in addition to Niguez) to let their striker leave the Camp Nou:
Barcelona and Atletico are in advanced talks for swap deal between Saúl and Griezmann! Both players gave the green light in the last hours. ???
Barça and Atléti now negotiating on price tags. Barça want money included.
Liverpool and Chelsea keen on Saúl if deal will collapse.
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 14, 2021
Niguez does have a €150m (£128m) release clause included in his contract but it is widely believed that he will be available for substantially less than that figure this summer. Reports in Spain have set his asking price anywhere between €50m (£43m) and €70m (£60m).
Chelsea are said to be interested in strengthening their options in midfield but many in the English media believe the London club’s priority is West Ham’s Declan Rice, who plays a much deeper role than Niguez. We shall see, therefore, whether the Blues do get involved in the battle for the Spanish international.