OPINION
Turning down the opportunity to sign a player, then see them gain the potential to become one of the best players in Europe, is undoubtedly going to be a kick in the teeth for most clubs.
That is no different with Everton, as Sky journalist Guillem Balague has revealed on BBC Radio 5 Live that the Toffees turned down the opportunity to sign Atletico Madrid midfielder Saul Niguez when he was only 18.
"I think we will be talking about him as the top midfielder in Europe"
But @GuillemBalague reveals @Everton and @ManUtd turned down the opportunity to sign @saulniguez
?? – https://t.co/oFbJJBLI93 pic.twitter.com/wBPRPiEUGS
— BBC 5 Live Sport (@5liveSport) September 13, 2018
Balague believes that the 23-year-old playmaker has the potential to become one of the best midfielders in Europe, a claim that will surely leave Everton kicking themselves.
He also drooled over his ability to come from deep within the midfield into the attack, which was demonstrated through his goal for Spain in the UEFA Nations League encounter with Croatia.
Now Balague has tipped him to become one of the best midfielders in Europe, Everton can only imagine what would have been if they took the chance and brought him to Goodison Park.
It is understandable why they did not take up the offer at the time – after all, he was only 18-years-old, and it is would have been a massive risk to take a punt on a player so young.
However, that risk would have paid off, as they would now have one of Europe’s brightest talents amongst their ranks if they were brave enough back then.
Balague pointed out that “you have everything in one player” in regards to Niguez – which essentially means that he is able to attack efficiently, as well as operate in his midfield role to a high standard.
Manchester United also rejected the chance to take him on when he was 20-years-old, which makes it seemingly obvious that the Premier League duo did not recognise the potential he had back then.
Atletico Madrid now have an upcoming talent on their hands, but what is Everton’s loss is definitely their gain.