The attempt to sign every promising young talent in Spain continues, with Arsenal and Chelsea both after Saul Niguez of Atletico Madrid, who is currently on loan with Rayo Vallecano.
The 19-year old who plays internationally for the U-21 team (6 caps) plays in the middle of the pitch, but can also be used in more defensive roles like a defensive midfielder or as a centre back. He is doing quite well on the individual level for Rayo this season, finally getting some regular playing time (16 matches), with Atletico unable to fit him in their talented squad that’s been running so well this season.
According to the Mirror, Arsenal have already been in contact with Niguez’ representatives, but Chelsea are also interesting in sealing the deal and have sent out scouts to watch the youngster play in his next match against Getafe to see if it’s worth going into a bidding war for the player.
Most of Arsenal’s potential targets seem to be players that won’t be arriving this January. Yes, Arsene Wenger needs another forward to make up for Theo Walcott’s injury and help backup Olivier Giroud, who doesn’t have the deepest of benches (At least in his position) waiting to challenge him for the starting spot. Niguez isn’t going to be signed in order to help ease the load on Giroud, but will be another player in the long list of talented midfielders Arsenal have, although a defensive midfielder without too many creative bones in his body is something of a rarity.
Chelsea? Mourinho probably doesn’t have a plan for Niguez except owning him and probably loaning him out. Young players who aren’t already stars don’t usually stand much of a chance to impress Mourinho, and if it means ruining it for Arsenal it just might be worth it for the Portuguese manager.