Atletico Madrid and Spain midfielder Saul Niguez has labelled a possible move to Real Madrid as “unthinkable”.

Niguez, 23, has emerged as a key player for club and country. This followed a troubled early spell across the city with Los Blancos’ academy, which he departed in 2008 after being bullied.

Ahead of Saturday’s first La Liga derby of the season between the sides, he was quizzed by Cadena SER about a potential cross-town switch.

He replied: “Real Madrid, for me it is unthinkable, it would be very, very difficult, almost impossible.”

Niguez signed a nine-year contract extension in July 2017, tying him to Los Rojiblancos until 2026.

“I do not know what is going to happen, I have until 2026,” he said.

“I signed it [the deal] knowing what there was and what there is. I am very happy.

“If someone outside [the club] offers you  €20 million and here  €5m, you have to think about it.”

Niguez has scored 29 times in 206 Atleti run-outs.