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Guillem Balague: Man Utd and Everton turned down Saul Niguez

Saul Niguez goal celeb, Atletico Madrid v Bayern Munich, Champions League
Image: Saul Niguez celebrates scoring against Bayern Munich

Sky Sports' Spanish football expert Guillem Balague has revealed Everton and Manchester United rejected the chance to sign Saul Niguez.

The Atletico Madrid midfielder drew headlines with a sensational solo goal against Bayern Munich to give his side a 1-0 lead heading into Tuesday's Champions League semi-final second leg.

The 21-year-old's great form has largely gone under the radar this season as the likes of Antoine Griezmann, Fernando Torres and Koke have received the plaudits.

Atleti are chasing an unprecedented league and European double and Saul has played a major part in helping his side to the brink of history.

However, Balague has revealed on the La Liga Weekly Podcast that the young Spaniard was twice offered to Premier League clubs - but Everton and United both passed on the opportunity.

"Saul was offered to Everton when he was 18, and they said no, and he was offered to Manchester United a year-and-a-half ago and United decided not to go for him," Balague said.

Their loss appears to be Atletico's gain and Balague is certain that Saul could become one of the greats of the game.

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"We have been saying on Revista for two years that he will become one of the best midfielders in Europe and he is on the way," he added.

Atletico Madrid's Saul Niguez vies with PS defender Hector Moreno
Image: Saul could become one of the best midfielders in Europe, according to Guillem Balague

Terry Gibson is also a fan of Saul, first spotting him playing on loan at Rayo Vallecano, and believes the midfielder could force his way into the Spain squad for this summer's European Championship.

"He is one of those players that has gone unnoticed until that goal," Gibson said. "It was a sensational goal and it has brought him to the attention of a lot more people.

"He is a versatile player as well and there are enough players in the squad who should be threatened by Saul. (Vincent) Del Bosque will have a really good look at him in the preparation games coming up. He is still very young and has a great future ahead of him."

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