Manchester United 'open talks' with Atletico Madrid for Saul Niguez

Louis van Gaal has been informed the funds are in place to sign an exciting attacking player this month

Atletico Madrid midfielder Saul Niguez jostles with Celta Vigo's Hugo Mallo (Getty Images)

Manchester United have reportedly opened negotiations with Atlético Madrid to sign midfielder Saúl Ñíguez.

The 21-year-old has scored five goals in 35 appearances for the La Liga outfit and, according to the Daily Mirror, has an £18m release clause written into his contract at the Vicente Calderón.

Louis van Gaal, looking for someone to inject life into his dour season at Old Trafford, has been sanctioned to make a stellar signing this month with Lazio play-maker Felipe Anderson being another option.

Premier League rivals Arsenal are also believed to be keeping an eye on the Ñíguez situation as the Spaniard seemingly approaches the exit.

If he were to leave Atlético this month, the Elche-born star would become the fourth player to depart Diego Simeone’s men for England in the last two years – following Diego Costa, Felipe Luis and Toby Alderweireld.

Lazio midfielder Felipe Anderson is wanted by Manchester United (Getty Images)

Meanwhile, Lazio sporting director Igli Tare was forced to address speculation linking Anderson with a move to the Premier League.

He said: “We have not received any offer from Manchester United this month, but we refused an offer from them on August 27 worth £37.6m.

“We rejected Manchester United's offer because we think he will be worth much more once he really explodes. His situation has not changed compared to August.”