Liverpool could use these two players in Saul Niguez swap deal as 'opening bid made'

Liverpool could include one of Divock Origi or Xherdan Shaqiri in a deal to bring Atletico Madrid’s Saul Niguez to Anfield this summer, per reports. The Reds have reportedly had an opening bid of £34million rejected according to Mundo Deportivo, as Saul’s suitors appear to be holding out for £42m.

Saul, 26, will certainly be Liverpool’s top transfer target this summer window since midfielder Gini Wijnaldum left for PSG on a free transfer.

Wijnaldum will be a tough player to replace, however, Jurgen Klopp and Michael Edwards believe they’ve found a younger suitable replacement.

The Spanish international has been in Atletico’s ranks since a youth in 2008, making an impressive 337 appearances for them, and recouping 43 goals in the process.

Like Wijnaldum, Saul is a box-to-box midfielder and never shies away from an attempt on goal.

He would be a dream addition to Klopp’s side and his enthusiasm and driving style of play may reignite the fires of Mohamed Salah, Sadio Mane, and Roberto Firmino.

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Origi has spent much of his Liverpool career often used as an impact substitute from the bench, yet since the arrival of Salah and Mane, he never looked like breaking through.

He has had memorable moments for Liverpool with a brace against Barcelona in the Champions League semi-final being the obvious highlight.

However, he looks out of favour, especially since the signing of Diogo Jota last season.

Like Saul, he is 26, and given the chance under Diego Simeone he could still reach his full potential.

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If Atletico needed a replacement for Saul then Liverpool could also offer Swiss ace Shaqiri.

The midfielder can play on the wing or as an attacking midfielder and has been very underused at Liverpool for a player of his calibre.

However, he was heavily involved during all their success in 2019, again notably, against Barcelona.

After impressing – once more – for his country in a major tournament, he will return from Euro 2020 with a new sense of confidence and belief and will likely want to start a new chapter at a new club where he can prove himself.

source: express.co.uk