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HEART AND SAUL

Three ways Saul Niguez will fit into Man Utd team with versatile midfielder linking up with Bruno Fernandes and Pogba

MANCHESTER UNITED are said to be "very close" to signing Saul Niguez from Atletico Madrid.

The versatile midfielder can play in a variety of positions and could prove a valuable asset alongside Paul Pogba and Bruno Fernandes if the Red Devils can land him during the next transfer window.

 Niguez can play in a number of positions across the midfield
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Niguez can play in a number of positions across the midfield

The 25-year-old star sent fans into meltdown this week as he teased a major announcement regarding a new team.

But supporters were left furious after it was revealed that he was referring to a project in his hometown of Elche.

However, reports from across Europe have now claimed Manchester United are close to completing the deal.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has employed a variety of formations at United this season.

And with Niguez in the team he would be able to do that with confidence.

 The Spaniard could be relied on in a more deep lying role against the bigger teams
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The Spaniard could be relied on in a more deep lying role against the bigger teams

Most systems will likely revolve around the superstar midfield trio of Niguez, Paul Pogba and Bruno Fernandes.

A 4-3-3 formation could see the three stars sit behind an attacking line of Marcus Rashford, Anthony Martial and Odion Ighalo.

If Jadon Sancho makes the move to Old Trafford this summer, expect to see him swapped in for Martial while Mason Greenwood could also see more game time up top instead of Ighalo.

A more conservative lineup could see a 4-3-1-2 with Fred - who has been impressive this season - sitting in a deeper role allowing Niguez and Fernandes on either side of a narrow three to support Pogba going forward.

 a 4-4-2 diamond formation could also see him sit in front of Scott McTominay with Bruno Fernandes
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a 4-4-2 diamond formation could also see him sit in front of Scott McTominay with Bruno Fernandes

While a diamond system with Scott McTominay in place of Fred could also utilise Niguez's strengths as an all round midfielder.

Niguez has a huge £130million release clause as part of his Atletico contract.

But due to a financial meltdown caused by the coronavirus, they are prepared to accept just over half of that.


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Niguez has made over 300 appearances for Atletico since he joined them at the age of 14.

He reached the Champions League final with them in 2016 - but his team lost to Real Madrid.

The Spaniard, who has 19 caps, has established himself as a key figure within Diego Simeone's side - who are sixth in the LaLiga table.

 Saul Niguez could play in a variety of roles for Man Utd next season
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Saul Niguez could play in a variety of roles for Man Utd next season
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