Recent reports from Spanish media outlet Mundo Deportivo (as cited by Sports Witness) suggest that Manchester United haven’t given up on their pursuit of Atletico Madrid right-back Kieran Tripper as they are expected to return to the fray once the transfer window re-opens in January.
The report further states that The Red Devils launched a bid in the region of €21 million for the former Tottenham star; however, the Rojiblancos stuck to their demand for €40 million (Trippier’s release clause).
As the deal didn’t go through, Diogo Dalot’s move to Borussia Dortmund collapsed as United had failed to sign an ideal replacement.
A couple of months ago, various reports stated that despite having two years remaining on his present contract, the 30-year-old defender is considering returning to his country. However, he might have to wait until the end of the year before doing so.
Trippier’s 2020/21 Season At Wanda Metropolitano
The 33-times England international bagged six assists in thirty-five appearances across all competitions for Atletico Madrid last season as they went on to win La Liga for the eleventh time in their history.
He managed to put up some astonishing numbers on the board the last term, both defensively and offensively, as he averaged 1.4 interceptions, 2.2 tackles, 1.2 key passes, 1.7 clearances, 1.2 crosses, 2.2 long balls, and 0.9 dribbles per 90 minutes in the Spanish top flight.
Trippier has the potential to act as the final piece in Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s unsolved puzzle as he offers exactly what the Norwegian coach in lacking at the moment – a right-back with elite attacking capabilities. His overlapping runs down the right flank make him a highly advantageous asset as he adds a new dimension to his side’s attack – bravely bursting forward to dribble past the opposition players and deliver threatening crosses into the box. With the towering presence of stars like Paul Pogba, Cristiano Ronaldo, Harry Maguire, and Raphael Varane, Trippier can offer ample menace from his set-piece deliveries as well.
Furthermore, his versatility makes him more appealing as it allows him to fill in the conventional right-back position as well as the contemporary right wing-back role.
Should Solskjaer Snap Him Up This Time?
It’s quite early to say if Solskjaer should be targeting him four months from now as it depends on several key factors – Aaron Wan-Bissaka’s performances, Diogo Dalot’s options, Trippier’s fitness level and Atletico Madrid’s asking price.
Spending €40 million on a backup option doesn’t make much sense at the moment as United are in dire need of a world-class holding midfielder. But it’s beyond any doubt that Trippier’s arrival will give rise to a healthy competition between him and Wan-Bissaka, and it might just bring the best out of the latter one, who arguably has a lot to improve in offensive terms.
(Stats from WhoScored)
