Chelsea are reportedly hoping to secure a move for Saul Niguez and strike a deal similar to the one they orchestrated for Mateo Kovacic.
Thomas Tuchel is looking to add another midfielder to his squad to solidify their Premer League title chances.
Saul is set to leave Atletico Madrid before the transfer window shuts next week with the Blues and Manchester United among the teams interested in the Spanish international.
The 26-year-old is available on loan if it can become permanent further down the line as talks continue between both clubs.
Chelsea are keen to go down this avenue, but would rather an option to buy, than an obligation to buy, reports The Telegraph.
Chelsea or Man Utd - Who will win the race for Saul Niguez? Comment below
This is a route they went down when they signed Kovavic from Real Madrid. The 27-year-old arrived at Stamford Bridge on a season-long loan in 2018 before he signed a five-year contract with the Blues the following summer.
Man Utd could pip them to his signature, however, as the Red Devils are also reportedly in discussions with Atletico over a potential move.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer wants to add another midfielder to his squad, an area seen as United's weakness, something that was evident against Southampton on Sunday in their 1-1 draw.
Scott McTominay was missing through injury which meant Fred and Nemanja Matic were the midfield pair in front of the defence. It's a partnership that didn't seem to mesh as well as United struggled in possession and couldn't get their forwards into the game.
And with the Scotland star now set for a spell on the sidelines after it was announced that he needed minor surgery to correct the issue, United could look to accelerate their push for Saul, although they will need to trim their squad first.
McTominay, 24, said on Instagram : “Just to let you all know I’ve had minor surgery on an issue which has needed managing for the last couple of months.
“I hate missing games, so to be missing Wolves on the weekend & the international break is so disappointing but that’s part & parcel of the game.
“Wishing all the boys the best of luck & I will be back sooner than you think.”
United felt surgery was the only option because McTominay was in so much pain every time he played.
“Having tried all other treatment options in pre-season, surgery was deemed necessary to resolve the issue,” said United in a statement. “We hope to have him back soon.”
