Atletico Madrid midfielder Saul Niguez will reportedly push for a move to Manchester United ahead of Juventus or Paris-Saint Germain in the summer transfer window. Niguez is said to have been identified as a potential alternative to Declan Rice, who is also on the radar of Premier League rivals Chelsea.

United are believed to have shown an interest in Niguez as Ole Gunnar Solskjaer looks to make midfield improvements this summer.

Juve and PSG are also said to be keen on the 26-year-old, who played a crucial role in Atletico’s La Liga title triumph this season.

But the 26-year-old would prefer a move to United, with Juventus his second choice, according to The Mirror.

Niguez has a buyout clause of around £60million, but it is said Atletico will listen to offers closer to the £40m marks.

The Madrid side plan to sell players to raise funds for their own recruitment, having been hit financially by the pandemic like every other club.

Atletico’s director-general Miguel Angel Gil said: “If Saul wants to leave Atletico there are no problems as long as the move is positive for all sides.”

Niguez, who earns around £115,000 a week, is understood to be on a shortlist of defensive midfield targets for United. Hammers star Declan Rice is also on the list although neither are believed to be the first choice.

The Red Devils have also been linked with a move for Wolves midfield Ruben Neves, who could be available for around £35million. But United may have other priorities in the transfer window before pursuing a central midfielder.

And they are also considered among the favorites to land Harry Kane after the England striker signaled his desire to leave Tottenham.