Saul Niguez has been linked with an ambitious swap deal involving him going to Barcelona and Antoine Griezmann heading back to Atletico Madrid. His agent, Jonathan Barnett has now commented about the proposed deal, saying:
“Saúl will do with his future what is best for Saúl. Nothing has been decided, Saúl has as many options to stay as he does to leave.”
The player’s agent was rather cryptic when asked about the transfer by AS, as is normal before the clubs reach an agreement. According to renowned transfer insider Fabrizio Romano, the two clubs are in advanced negotiations for the deal to go through.
Barcelona want Saul, along with a sum worth €15 million since they believe their man is worth more. At 26, the Spanish midfielder is valued as one of the most expensive midfielders in Europe, but in Barcelona’s eyes, is still less than Griezmann.
Interestingly, Barnett did not rule out Saul staying at Atletico Madrid either. In 20/21, he was not used as often, and the club signed Rodrigo De Paul from Udinese, who operates in a similar role as Saul. The general feeling is that he wants something new, and that could be away from the Wanda Metropolitano, at Camp Nou.
The two La Liga clubs are in advanced negotiations regarding the transfer, but nothing official has been confirmed yet. Despite the agent’s comments, it is unlikely that Saul will stay at Madrid, and Griezmann’s future could also lie in red and white once again.
Should the swap deal fail to go through, Liverpool are also interested in bringing the Spaniard over. They have prepared a bid worth €40 million while Atletico are holding out for €50 million.
