Atletico Madrid announced the signing of Argentina international Rodrigo De Paul for 35 million euros, beating a horde of clubs for his signature. De Paul’s arrival from Udinese could pave the way for Saul Niguez to move to Liverpool.
De Paul was one of the most coveted players in Europe this summer and backed his popularity by playing a key role for Argentina in their Copa America 2021 win. De Paul provided the crucial assist for Angel Di Maria’s goal in the final against Brazil – a game which the Albiceleste won by a goal to nil.
“I’m very happy, I’m going to join LaLiga’s champion and I’m conscious of the responsibility it carries. It is a big step in my football career. Moreover, because of the timing, just after winning the Copa América. This fills me [with] strength to meet all expectations,”
De Paul told the Atletico Madrid website.
De Paul leaves Udinese after 34 goals and 36 assists in over 180 matches, having signed for the Serie A side from Racing Club. His arrival at the Wanda Metropolitano could signal the end of Atleti academy graduate Saul, who has been linked with a move to Liverpool and Barcelona.
The Daily Mail reports that with De Paul added to the squad, Atletico can now sell Saul. Liverpool have been linked with the midfielder heavily in recent weeks, the Reds looking to replace Georginio Wijnaldum, who joined Paris Saint-Germain in a free transfer earlier this month. The report also states that Liverpool could capture the Spaniard for as low a fee as 40 million euros.
