Recent reports from The Sun state that Atletico Madrid right-back Kieran Tripper is quite close to sealing a move to Old Trafford, with the official announcement expected by the end of next week.
The England international still has a year left on his current contract; however, the report further states that he is desperate to return to his country.
Trippier’s Amazing Season At Wanda Metropolitano
The 30-year-old bagged 6 assists in thirty-five appearances for Atletico Madrid across all competitions last season as they went on to win the La Liga for the eleventh time in their history.
Trippier managed to put up some impressive numbers on the board the last term, both defensively and offensively – averaging 2.2 tackles, 1.4 interceptions, 1.7 clearances, 1.2 key passes, 1.2 crosses, 2.2 long balls, and 0.9 dribbles per 90 minutes in the Spanish top flight.
It is widely believed that Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has shown some concerns over Aaron Wan-Bissaka’s offensive gameplay, and under such circumstances, Tripper would be the perfect addition to the present squad. The Englishman is capable of making some solo powerful runs down either flank, which makes him even more appealing going forward. Added to this, his defensive abilities have bettered a lot under the stewardship of Diego Simeone over the last couple of years or so. Last but not least, his versatility allows him to fill in the conventional right-back position, left-back position as well as contemporary right-midfield position.
Smart Option For Solskjaer?
Manchester United lack quality backups in the right-back department, with 20-year-old Brandon Williams (who is more naturally suited to the left-back role) being the only viable option at present. The signing of Kieran Trippier will undoubtedly give rise to healthy competition, and it might just replicate the effect of Alex Telles’ signing on Luke Shaw.
At 30, the 33-times England international has some of his best years ahead of him, so it won’t be a complete surprise if he adds a completely new dimension to United’s attack next season.
(Stats from WhoScored)
