- Saul Niguez is reportedly open to the idea of a move to Man Utd
- Atletico Madrid star’s £134m release clause could be problematic
- Ander Herrera is keen to stay at Old Trafford beyond 2019
- READ MORE: £27m Manchester United star could agree deal to leave in January to surprise club
It’s shaping up to be another busy summer at Man Utd next year, with Jose Mourinho likely to be active on the market to strengthen his squad further.
After delivering three trophies in his first season in charge at Old Trafford, the Portuguese tactician has found it difficult to kick on from that in his pursuit of the major prizes.
United currently sit eight points adrift of Premier League leaders Manchester City, although they’re going well in the Champions League as they’re on the verge of qualifying for the knockout stage.
Man Utd could make move for Saul Niguez
Speculation would suggest that Mourinho isn’t entirely happy with his squad as a whole yet though, and The Sun claim the Atletico Madrid star Saul Niguez could be a target next summer.
The 22-year-old has a whopping £134m release clause in his contract and so Man Utd will surely hope to negotiate down from that to reach a deal, but it is claimed that should the two clubs reach an agreement on a transfer fee, the Spaniard would be keen on a move to Old Trafford.
Atleti haven’t impressed as a whole so far this season for the most part and so Saul’s numbers don’t reflect the quality and influence he’s having on the team. However, with nine goals and four assists in 53 games last season, he’s evidently a reliable option who can deliver in various positions.
Herrera keen to extend stay at Man Utd
Meanwhile, ESPN FC report that midfielder Ander Herrera is keen to stay at Man Utd despite interest from Barcelona and Atleti.
It comes from the fact that the 28-year-old hasn’t yet signed a long-term agreement with the Red Devils, although there doesn’t seemingly need to be a major panic over his future given he’s tied to the club until 2019 after a one-year extension was exercised.
In turn, with United exercising their option and Herrera said to be keen to stay on further, it’s unclear as to where the problem lies as both parties are happy together, so we’re led to believe.
His lack of regular football so far this season after the summer arrival of Nemanja Matic would have been a concern, but ultimately if he’s happy to stay and fight for his place in Mourinho’s line-up then there shouldn’t be much standing in the way of a longer agreement.
The United boss evidently still values him as a key part of his squad given his important role last season, as he made 50 appearances in all competitions and was named the club’s Player of the Year. Herrera has already played 15 times this season, starting the last four league games in the absence of the injured Paul Pogba.