Manchester United are £65m short for La Liga superstar Saul Niguez for Paul Pogba replacement ahead of the summer transfer.

The 25-year-old Atletico Madrid star has made 286 appearances for his La Liga club in all competitions, contributing 38 goals and 18 assists in the process.

Manchester United coach Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has identified the ideal partner for Bruno Fernandes as the Red Devils directors aim to pair Saul and the Portuguese star with the right player in the centre of the pack next season.

Former Premier League Champions send scouts to watch the Spanish midfielder in the clash against Liverpool at Afield in the last 16 of the Europe most prestigious competition and the report was positive.

Atletico, though, have the midfielder on a contract until the summer of 2026, which is believed to include a release clause of €150m (£135m).

Diego Simeone’s side will reportedly refuse to sell the Spain international unless the buy-out figure is met, but according to AS, Manchester United are only prepared to pay £70m for his services.

Former Red Devils captain Rio Ferdinand recently urged Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side to move for the Atletico midfielder should they lose Pogba during this summer’s transfer window.

Saul is considered one of Spain’s best midfielders and has played 19 times for his national side, scoring three goals.