Manchester City working on deal for Atletico Madrid star

Manchester City have emerged as frontrunners for Atletico Madrid star Saul Niguez, claims ESPN.

Pep Guardiola wants to bolster his offensive options at the end of the season and has earmarked Saul as a top transfer target after missing out on Ajax’s Frenkie de Jong.

The City head coach was forced to re-assess his pursuit of Fernandinho’s long-term replacement after Barcelona announced a summer deal for De Jong in January.

Guardiola has missed out on Fred, Jorginho and De Jong in search of Fernandinho’s successor and has now turned his attentions to Saul.

The 24-year-old’s current deal is not due to expire until 2026 but City are reportedly growing increasing confident of securing Saul’s services in a €80m (£70m).

Saul is on course to garner his lowest WhoScored rating (7.13) in a single league campaign since establishing himself as a first-team regular for Atletico in 2015.