Aniket Rai
Transfer News: Arsenal enter race with Manchester United for Kieran Trippier
According to Spanish outlet Marca (h/t Daily Mail), Arsenal are set to rival Manchester United for Atletico Madrid defender, Kieran Trippier.
The English full-back enjoyed a stellar season in Spain as he won the La Liga under Diego Simeone. However, he is linked with a return to England with Manchester United mentioned as a likely destination.
Trippier lives alone in Madrid and while he is said to be happy under the Argentine manager, the full-back was reportedly looking for property in the Manchester area. United want him as a way of increasing competition for Aaron Wan-Bissaka.
Fight for Trippier
But now, the report states that the Gunners plan on getting the former Tottenham Hotspur player on board. And as a way to sweeten the deal, Arsenal would be willing to use Hector Bellerin as a makeweight.
The Spanish defender, who is 26 years old, is open to a move to his home nation, Spain. And Atletico director, Andrea Berta, is a ‘big admirer’ of Bellerin. (h/t Daily Mail)
This comes as a blow for United because Trippier could get more playing time at Arsenal if Bellerin goes the other way. But it remains to be seen if the former Spurs player would be willing to join a direct rival.
United currently have Aaron Wan-Bissaka as their undisputed right back. But apart from him, there is no natural right-back that can take his position or offer him some competition.
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And with the Red Devils competing on four fronts for trophies, depth in defence could prove to be key. Trippier is also in the England squad for the UEFA Euros 2020 ahead of Wan-Bissaka, who was dropped in favour of other right-backs.
