NOT SAUL OVER FOR NIGUEZ

TOM HOPKINSON

CHELSEA will do a U-turn to keep on-loan midfielder Saul Niguez beyond the summer — if the Government’s sanctions allow them.

Saul (right) struggled after joining the club from Atletico Madrid at the start of the season and, despite finally settling and getting more game time in recent weeks, the Blues were not expecting to take up a clause in the loan deal which gave them first option to buy.

They will now explore whether the terms of the initial agreement will permit them to sign the Spaniard for the pre-agreed fee of £29.3million given they cannot make any brand new signings.

Chelsea have until May 30 to communicate their decision on the 27-year-old to Atletico.