Saul Niguez: Chelsea sign Atletico and Spain midfielder on loan after Sevilla reject Kounde bid

3 years ago 96
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Saul NiguezSaul Niguez has made 338 appearances for Atletico Madrid scoring 43 goals

Chelsea have signed Atletico Madrid and Spain midfielder Saul Niguez on loan with an option to buy.

The 26-year-old was a key player as Atletico won La Liga last term, making 33 appearances.

Chelsea doubted they could sign Saul, but managed to strike a deal, paying a loan fee with an option to make the move permanent.

Sevilla earlier confirmed that they had rejected Chelsea's "unsatisfactory" offer for France defender Jules Kounde.

The Spanish club stood firm over the fee required for Kounde, insisting he would not be allowed to join the Blues for less than his 80m euros release clause.

Sevilla sporting director Monchi said in a press conference a bid had been rejected for the 22-year-old.

"The only formal offer from Chelsea came last Wednesday," he said.

"We weren't satisfied with the offer, and it was linked to Chelsea selling a player. It was a decent fee but it didn't meet our criteria.

"We haven't spoken with Chelsea since Friday night."

The Blues have been heavily linked with Kounde this summer and were hopeful a deal could be reached following Kurt Zouma's move to West Ham.

Kounde, who joined Sevilla in 2019, has made 91 appearances for the club and attracted the attention of many of Europe's top clubs.

Meanwhile, Chelsea defender Ethan Ampadu, 20, has gone on a season-long loan to Serie A side Venezia.

The Wales international has also signed a new deal with the Blues, committing him to staying at Stamford Bridge until 2024.

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