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Tottenham's stance on hijacking £17m Newcastle bid for Kieran Trippier in January
TOTTENHAM and Newcastle have been linked with Atletico Madrid star Kieran Trippier.
In pictures: Tottenham v West Ham
Tottenham’s stance is clear over whether or not to hijack Newcastle’s prospective transfer of Kieran Trippier. Atletico Madrid are reportedly ready to do business over a deal worth £17m.
Newcastle are desperate to bolster their forces in the January transfer window with relegation a genuine threat.
The Magpies have won just once in the Premier League and are in the bottom three but Eddie Howe will be allowed to spend.
With Newcastle's Saudi-based financial backing, the former Bournemouth boss has several targets in mind - defence being his priority.
The first signing could be Atletico star Trippier, who is keen on a return to England after winning La Liga last year.
Manchester United were interested over the summer but have since cooled their efforts while Spurs have also been mentioned as a potential rival to Newcastle’s plans.
However, according to ESPN, Tottenham are not willing to make a move for their former player in January.
Trippier spent four years in north London before leaving for Madrid in 2019 for £20m.
However, Antonio Conte wants to bolster his defence as well - with a centre-back a bigger priority.
Inter Milan star Milan Skriniar is top of his wish list after winning Serie A with him last year at the San Siro.
That leaves Newcastle in the race for Trippier, who could be signed for £17m (€20m) as Atletico look to sell players.
The England international was a key part of Diego Simeone’s side that won the league last year after making 28 appearances and registering six assists.
While the 31-year-old remains in the team, his attacking output has not been as good in 14 La Liga matches, not scoring or assisting.
Nevertheless, Newcastle see Trippier as a morale-boosting signing who can help lift them into safety.
Several other players have been touted to make the switch to St James Park, including Burnley ace James Tarkowski - who is out of contract at the end of the season.
United outcast Jesse Lingard is another on Howe’s wishlist, as well as Odion Ighalo.