ATLETICO MADRID face a battle to keep “unhappy” star Saul Niguez with Manchester United, City and Barcelona all keeping tabs on the Spaniard.
Niguez has starred for Atletico this season in the defensive midfield role and has emerged as a transfer target for Europe’s elite clubs.
The potential transfer of the 24-year-old could be aided due to his unhappiness at the club, according to AS.
Niguez is understood to be one of many players unsettled with his contract – thought to be £90,000 a week – while Antoine Griezmann vastly earns more at £300,000.
It comes as welcomed news for Barca, United and City who all see the Spanish international as a long-term option to fill their void in defensive midfield.
City boss Pep Guardiola added Niguez to the list of those who he values as a replacement for Fernandinho.
The defensive midfielder will not be cheap, however, after signing a nine-year contract extension in 2017.
Niguez’s contract includes a release clause of £129million – but Atletico chiefs are desperate to keep the Spaniard.
It is believed the player is open to a move, despite Atletico’s advances to offer him a fresh deal.
Griezmann was rewarded with a bumper contract last summer when he rejected approaches from La Liga champions Barcelona.
