Manchester United will have to overcome stiff competition from a couple of domestic rivals to bring Atletico Madrid’s Kieran Trippier back to the Premier League.
According to 90min.com, Newcastle United and Tottenham Hotspur are ready to challenge the Red Devils for the right-back’s services this winter.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was keen on taking Trippier to Old Trafford before the start of the season, but Man United ultimately refused to meet Atletico’s asking price.
It has turned out to be a bad call, considering Aaron Wan-Bissaka’s underwhelming showings this season.
Despite his bursting ranks down the right flank, the 24-year-old has yet to provide a single assist across all competitions this season, as his crossing ability to continues to let him down.
In addition to performing below expectations, the Englishman has struggled with injuries, leaving the Red Devils short of reliable options in the right-back position.
Diogo Dalot, who has been in and out of Solskjaer’s squad since returning from a season-long loan at AC Milan last season, has started both Premier League matches under new boss Ralf Rangnick.
However, neither player has convinced the German strategist, who is now looking to finish what his predecessor started and land a new right-back in the January transfer window.
Trippier’s name is now back in the mix.
Atletico forked out £20 million to sign the 31-year-old from Tottenham in summer 2019.
He played a prominent role in Los Rojiblancos’ La Liga triumph last season, growing into one of Diego Simeone’s most consistent performers.
Despite his heroic exploits at the Wanda Metropolitano, the Englishman could be on his way back to the Premier League this winter.
Atletico are ready to listen to offers for their first-choice right-back, who has a whopping £50m release clause in his contract.
That could encourage Man United to step up their interest in Trippier, but they are not the only club interested in acquiring his services this winter.
Japhet Tanganga and Matt Doherty have blown hot and cold this season, prompting Tottenham to consider taking their former star back to London.
Spurs helped Trippier establish himself as a household right-back, and fond memories could reinforce the prospect of a winter reunion.
But watch out for Newcastle United, who are ready to splash the cash in the January transfer window as the wealthy new owners look to turn the Magpies’ fortunes around.
Eddie Howe’s men are languishing in the relegation zone following a sluggish first half of the Premier League season.
The St James’ Park chiefs will be aiming to improve the squad in January to bolster Newcastle’s bid to avoid relegation this term.
The Tynesiders are reportedly ready to make Trippier their highest earner by offering him a lucrative £150,000-per-week contract.