Matteo Moretto Transfer Column: Matt O'Riley, Hansi Flick-Deco talks, Saul Niguez and Nico Williams
Matteo Moretto gives Football España exclusive information on the latest business dominating the newspapers in Spain, as revealed in Daily Briefing by Fabrizio Romano.
Field of Saul Niguez in search of a solution to leave Atletico Madrid
I can exclusively say that Saul's camp is looking for a solution, to leave Atletico Madrid, after an entire career, except for two loans. All the signs are that it will happen, and Saul will leave Atletico.
Manager Diego Simeone has told Saul directly that he is not in their plans for next season, and the club has communicated with him as well. So his camp is currently looking for a way out.
Atletico Madrid are looking for a replacement should he leave, and they have put together a shortlist. One of the options is Celtic's Matt O'Riley, who as we reported, was a target in January, and Atletico had an offer rejected for him. Clearly, there are other options they like as well, but Los Rojiblancos are still interested.
Nico Williams linked up with Barcelona too early – but the dressing room is working in his favour
What I can tell you is that there is no conversation between Athletic Club and any other club, including Barcelona. Part of this is that Athletic Club will not discuss a deal, Nico Williams will only leave if someone triggers his €58 million release clause.
As he commented last night on Cadena Cope, Williams is not interested in hearing about his future at this timesince he is completely focused on the euro with Spain, and wants to leave those discussions for later.
It is true that Barcelona is very interested in Nico Williams, and he also has many friends in the Barcelona dressing room, but I think it is a little early to make significant statements about his future now. It's definitely worth following the situation closely after the Euro, though.
What did the director of Barcelona, Hansi Flick, and the sports director Deco discuss on Tuesday?
Above all, they talk about the future of the Portuguese, Joao Felix and Joao Cancelo. Hansi Flick has given the green light to both to return to the club next season, so now the ball is in their court, it is up to them to negotiate with Atletico Madrid and Manchester City to make an agreement, and find a solution for them .
Both Manchester City and Atletico Madrid are looking to move Cancelo and Felix, so there is obviously a chance, but it will come down to what terms Barcelona are willing to offer.
