Man Utd in Saul Niguez transfer boost as Diego Simeone refuses to rule out transfer to ‘Barcelona or elsewhere’

MANCHESTER UNITED'S pursuit of Saul Niguez has been given a major boost by Atletico Madrid boss Diego Simeone.

The Argentine, who has just been rewarded with a three year contract for guiding Atletico to the La Liga title last season, admitted that Saul's exit this summer could be inevitable.

Although Saul's an important member of his team, Simeone revealed that it's possible he could be at Barcelona, or another team, next season.

And if he does have to go, the world's highest paid boss - who rakes in a mind-blowing £36.2million a year - said there'll be no hard feelings.

Goal reported that Simeone said: "We cannot put aside what is rumoured and talked about.

"If he has to leave, give him a big hug, wish him the best with the boys who gave us life and continue to be friends.

"As always, to Barcelona or elsewhere."

But Barca will have to fend off interest from both United and Liverpool who are also keen on signing Saul.

The player's agent has been in contact with the Prem giants in the event of a move to the Nou Camp not materialising.

Whoever does get their hands on the versatile midfielder is in for a treat as Simeone lauded praise on the the 26-year old for what he brings to the team.

He added: "He is a very important player for Atletico because he can play as a full-back, right-wing, midfielder.

"He gives us a-lot of options to be able to count on him.

"He is a player who, in that version and playing how the coach needs him to, performs very well."

It's evident how important the Spanish maestro is to Simeone's team, he made 41 starts in all competitions last season, scoring twice and assisting once as Atletico cruised to the title.

But the club find themselves in a precarious financial position and have to sell a few stars to balance the books.

Reports in Spain suggest Atletico are around £1bn in debt and need to generate funds for further additions this summer.

COMPETITION: SPOT THE BALL TO WIN A CAR AND CASH

DREAM TEAM IS BACK! SIGN UP NOW FOR THE 21/22 SEASON FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN £100,000

According to Spanish outlet AS, the La Liga champs want around £34million to sign the highly-rated Spanish midfielder.

And due to Barcelona's dire cash situation, the Red Devils and Jurgen's Klopp's side are in a better position to afford him right now.

Unless Barca manage to persuade Simeone to agree to a swap deal for Saul which will see their star Antoine Griezmann head the other way.

⚽ Read our Transfer news live blog for the very latest rumours, gossip and done deals