Chelsea to challenge Man United in move for 26-year-old midfielder

It was something of a dream second debut for Romelu Lukaku on Sunday, as the Belgian striker scored the opener and put in a man of the match performance as Chelsea beat Arsenal 2-0. 

The 28-year-old, a £97 million signing from Inter Milan last week, showed why the Blues are considered by many to be favourites for the title this season, however Thomas Tuchel’s side will face arguably the hardest test of the campaign next week as they travel to Anfield to face Liverpool.

In the meantime, it appears that Tuchel isn’t happy with the level of depth in his squad, and is instead considering a move for a La Liga midfielder.

According to The Guardian, both Chelsea and Manchester United are planning a potential loan move for Atletico Madrid midfielder Saul Niguez.

Blues boss Tuchel is apparently keen to increase competition for places by bolstering his midfield, with Jorginho, Mateo Kovacic and N’Golo Kante likely to be the only three midfielders involved with the first team this season.

Ross Barkley looks out of favour and could yet leave Stamford Bridge, while Billy Gilmour and Conor Gallagher have both gone on loan, to Norwich City and Crystal Palace respectively.

Saul looks set to depart Atleti before the transfer deadline on August 31.

Tiemoue Bakayoko and Danny Drinkwater also both look set to depart West London this summer.

Therefore, the German is looking to add more depth and experience to his squad, and Saul, who won the La Liga title last term, looks to be the ideal candidate.

Meanwhile, the same report also states that Manchester United could also make a move for the Spaniard, if a deal for Rennes midfielder Eduardo Camavinga doesn’t materialise.

The Frenchman has been heavily linked with a number of Europe’s top clubs this summer, including a host of English clubs, but looks set to remain in France if a deal cannot be agreed this week.

A graduate of the club’s academy, the Atletico midfielder has made over 330 appearances for the La Liga side, but is apparently open to the possibility of leaving in search of a new challenge.

If Saul does join Chelsea, he would be the club’s third senior summer signing after Lukaku and Marcus Bettinelli.