​Trippier confirms almost joining Man Utd before Newcastle move


 Manchester United were very close to signing Kieran Trippier last summer.

The Red Devils were in the market for a back-up or alternative to Aaron Wan-Bissaka.

The player himself has admitted that he was close to leaving Atleti for United in the summer of 2021.

He eventually signed for Newcastle United six months later, completing his return to the Premier League.

Asked about United's interest, he told The Mirror: "Yes they were. There were a couple of clubs.

"Me and the manager (Diego Simeone) had a chat at the start of the season and agreed if an opportunity came up I might go.

"At the start of the season I had a couple of family problems. To be fair they didn't want to come back. It didn't happen, so I carried on. I am not one to throw my toys out of the pram when it didn't happen.

"I didn't have to leave Madrid. I want to make that clear. I loved it there and it was a successful time. I had a few options as well. But for my family it was important."

He added: "I wanted to come back to the North. So there is (Manchester) City and Liverpool. As a player you have to be realistic as well.

"The Newcastle deal happened really quickly. The manager (Eddie Howe) took over, who I knew well and it was a good decision. This place is a football city and people are obsessed with their club."

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