Saul’s Atletico departure is very close and a move to the Premier League is practically unavoidable. United have tried to land the 26-year-old in the past. However, at that time Atletico were asking for Saul’s €150m release clause to be activated.
But now reports states that the player’s agents have told United that £43m is enough to secure a transfer.
It’s a huge climbdown from the reigning LaLiga champions, given his earlier value. However, Saul was not always first choice last season, hence his desire to move on.
£43m for a player of Saul’s pedigree and age appears to be a discount. He is renowned for his ability to play different tempos, depending on the game plan for specific games. But at his best, he is a dynamic, high-octane force who will give United more drive from their engine room.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has so far improved his attack in the shape of Jadon Sancho, while Raphael Varane has agreed to move from Real Madrid to strengthen the defence.
However, midfield still remains an area in need of a potential upgrade. That need would only heighten if Paul Pogba decides to leave and Donny van de Beek is also offloaded.
Saul’s arrival would give Solskjaer another player with extensive Champions League experience and title-winning know-how.