Thomas Tuchel’s phone call played a major role in convincing Saul Niguez to sign for Chelsea, according to reports.
The Blues completed their loan deal for the Atletico Madrid midfielder on transfer deadline day and have the option to make the move permanent at the end of the campaign for £30 million.
Saul will give Chelsea another good option in midfield having won the La Liga with Atletico, the Copa del Rey, as well as two Europa League trophies.
- Daniel James reveals where he went wrong at Man Utd
- Pogba sends warning to Man Utd team-mates over Cristiano Ronaldo
- Van Gaal hits back at criticism over Chelsea’s style under Thomas Tuchel
Chelsea were forced to fend off competition from Manchester United in the race to sign the Spanish central midfielder during the closing stages of the summer transfer window.
And according to Goal, Tuchel played a ‘decisive’ role insult ensuring Saul was heading to Stamford Bridge this summer.
The report claims that Tuchel spoke with Saul on the phone and promised him that he will be used solely as a central midfielder instead of being played in various positions like he has been during his time under Diego Simeone.
Saul has already started training with his new Chelsea teammates during the international break and could make his debut against Aston Villa on Saturday.
‘The three midfielders who are playing are at a high level,’ Saul said after his Chelsea move. ‘It will not be easy to play, but if I put my mind to it and fight it, I can get it.
‘Chelsea has promised me to train in my position [midfield], but to play we will see. To return to certain roles that I do not play in now – that is the most important reason for my decision.
‘This transfer is a step out of my comfort zone for me. I believe that you will see a new Saul in a new [better] place.’
