Manchester United’s hopes of signing Kieran Trippier from Atletico Madrid have quickly been ruled out by the Spanish press – but they have turned their attention elsewhere.
England international Trippier was linked with a return to the Premier League in Monday’s papers. The right-back has been suggested as a target for Manchester United as they look for more competition in that role.
Aaron Wan-Bissaka is currently their first choice after joining from Crystal Palace last summer. However, a move for Trippier would keep him on his toes and offer more of an attacking threat.
Trippier has not played in the Premier League since leaving Tottenham in 2019. Since then, he has established himself as a key player in La Liga with Atletico.
The 30-year-old has previously played down talk of a return to his native country. Indeed, a move to Man Utd seems unlikely.
According to Mundo Deportivo, Atletico have ruled that Trippier is “untouchable”. He has been ever-present in La Liga and the Champions League this season, contributing three assists in their rise to the top of the table.
Only goalkeeper Jan Oblak has played as much for Atleti this season – showing just how important he has become for them. Therefore, Trippier will not be on the market.
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Focus turns to Lucas Vazquez
With that in mind, United appear to have turned their attention elsewhere – but not too far away from where they were casting their original gaze.
According to Defensa Central, they are now targeting Lucas Vazquez, who plays for Atletico’s cross-city rivals Real Madrid.
Vazquez came through the youth ranks at the Bernabeu as a right winger. But he has since begun to feature in a more defensive role.
The 29-year-old, then, could provide cover for Wan-Bissaka and compete for a place further forward. His versatility would be a major asset.
The report claims United could lodge a €15m bid for Vazquez in January, six months before his contract with Madrid expires. It does not appear he will be continuing his 13-year stint with the club.
Therefore, Real may decide to cash in on him while they can. That could potentially give United an opportunity to strengthen their flanks.
READ MORE: Agreement ‘close’ as Man Utd jump to front of queue for €25m sensation
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