Antonio Conte admits he admires Saul Niguez (Picture: Getty)

Chelsea boss Antonio Conte admits he’s a huge fan of ‘very important’ Atletico Madrid midfielder Saul Niguez.

The Blues take on Diego Simeone’s side in the Spanish capital on Wednesday in what is likely to be a straight shoot-out for top spot in their Champions League group.

Saul, 22, has been heavily linked with Manchester United in the past and has emerged as one of Atletico’s key figures in the last 18 months.

The Spanish international appeared to end all speculation about a move to Old Trafford last summer by signing a sensational nine-year deal with Atletico.

Saul is expected to start against Chelsea (Picture: Getty)

And Conte admits he admires the Spaniard, hailing him as a ‘very important’ member of Atletico’s side alongside Koke.

‘We are talking about two great players,’ said Conte.

‘Saul is a young player but now he has the right prospect to be a top player.

‘Koke has a lot of experience, which is important for this team.

‘I know Saul very well and he is a very important player for Atletico. I like him and is a really good midfielder.’

MORE : Jose Mourinho furious with Premier League scheduling that hands ‘advantage’ to Manchester United’s title rivals