Barcelona 'line up £96m swoop for Saul Niguez'

Atletico Madrid midfielder Saul Niguez has emerged as a rumoured summer target for La Liga rivals Barcelona.

The 24-year-old came close to joining the Catalan giants in 2017, only to pen a long-term deal with Atleti that runs through until 2026.

Spanish outlet AS reports that Barca are prepared to pay £96m to bring in Saul, however, as they are keen to add an extra dimension to their squad for next season.

Manchester City are also believed to still be in the running for the 15-cap Spain international, whose release clause is set at £130m.

However, Barca's offer may be enough to tempt Atletico into cashing in, making Saul the most expensive Spanish footballer in history.

Should the one-time Real Madrid youth product make the switch to Camp Nou, Ivan Rakitic may reportedly be moved on.