Man United midfielder edges closer to open door for Saul swoop

Manchester United fans will undoubtedly be pleased with the club’s business in the transfer window so far this summer, with the club having resolved two problem positions and added world-class talent to their ranks in doing so. 

The arrivals of Jadon Sancho and Raphael Varane are likely to elevate United from last season’s comfortable second-placed finish to a potential title challenge this time around.

Now, however, it seems that there could possibly be one final arrival at Old Trafford this summer.

According to Dean Jones, speaking on The Football Terrace, a deal for United midfielder Jesse Lingard to join West Ham United is ‘likely’ to be completed this week.

The England international enjoyed an extremely successful loan spell with the Hammers during the second-half of last season, and the London club have reportedly been working to lure the player back on a permanent basis.

With Lingard and his £100,000-per-week wages potentially leaving United, it is being suggested that the club could now sanction a move for Atletico Madrid midfielder Saul Niguez.

The Express reports that the Spanish side are willing to accept an initial loan move with either an option or obligation to buy clause for next summer.

Despite featuring regularly in recent years, Atleti are reportedly willing to let Saul leave this summer.

United and Premier League rivals Chelsea have both been heavily linked with the Spaniard in recent days, and it appears that United may now be one step closer to agreeing a deal.

The report suggests that the opportunity to avoid having to pay a fee immediately could be what tempts United to make an offer for Saul.

The midfielder was instrumental once again for Atletico last season, as the club stormed to the La Liga title ahead of fellow capital rivals Real and Barcelona.

Red Devils boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is reportedly keen on signing a midfielder to add balance to his midfield.

A defensive midfielder is reportedly his priority, with the aim of balancing out the attacking threat and prowess of Paul Pogba and Bruno Fernandes.