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Report: Manchester clubs prepare Atletico midfield raid

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Atletico Madrid boss Diego Simeone could be set to lose two prized pieces of his sturdy midfield to a pair of Manchester heavyweights.

Manchester United are the latest club eyeing versatile Spaniard Saul Niguez, while Manchester City are monitoring a move for midfield mate Rodri, according to a report from Eduardo Fernandez-Abascal and Rob Dawson of ESPN FC.

City have also been linked with Saul in the past, with touchline tactician Pep Guardiola understood to be impressed by the 24-year-old's versatility. A central midfielder by trade, Saul has deputized as a full-back on six occasions this season in the league and on the wide left of a four-man midfield.

Reports suggest United's interest in Saul is as a replacement for countryman Ander Herrera, who has been associated with a summer switch to join Paris Saint-Germain on a free transfer. A €150-million release clause included in Saul's current contract could provide an obstacle for potential suitors.

According to reports, Guardiola is eyeing Rodri in a holding midfield role similar to the one Sergio Busquets employs at Barcelona. Guardiola handed Busquets his first-team Blaugrana debut during the 2008-09 season while at Barcelona.

Further exits from the Wanda Metropolitano in the summer would mark an exodus of sorts for Atletico. Center-back stalwart Diego Godin has already agreed on a free move to Inter, with Lucas Hernandez set to join Bayern Munich on a whopping club-record €80-million move.

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