Transfer Rumors: Atletico Madrid Ready For Man United Target Exit; Replacement Revealed

Atletico Madrid is aware that there is a huge possibility that Kierran Trippier could be leaving Wanda Metropolitano soon.

Although Manchester United has yet to tie loose ends, Indios are not taking any chances.

Although the interest in Trippier is categorized as rumors, there is no telling when the Red Devils may strike.

Hence, it would only be right for Atletico Madrid to have a backup plan ready if the 30-year-old footballer does depart.

A report claims that Colchoneros is prepared for that and already has a replacement in mind. He was identified as Gonzalo Montiel of River Plate.

For now, a Montiel deal is seen more as insurance. Atletico Madrid will not make it easy for Manchester United to pluck Trippier.

But the twist here is that the family of the English right-back appears to support the idea of seeing Trippier returning to England.

After joining Atletic Madrid in the summer of 2019 following a deal with Tottenham, Trippier has endeared himself to Indios fans. He signed a three-year deal at that time, something that will run out in the summer of 2022.

In the time he was with at Wanda Metropolitano, Trippier was instrumental when Colchoneros won the La Liga title last season.

In 28 appearances for Atletico Madrid, the English football player issued six assists.

But with Trippier having just one year left in his contract, Atletico Madrid is likely to want big money to agree to a deal.

He is currently valued at £17 million ($23 million). According to Mundo Deportivo, Indios want £34.19 million ($48.52 million) for Trippier.

Considering the huge cash splurge that the Red Devils spend on Jadon Sancho and Rafael Varane, they are expected to try and negotiate for a lower deal to acquire the 30-year-old footballer from Atletico Madrid.

However, Atletico Madrid may have to broaden its potential replacements if Trippier does leave.

Montiel is also a target by other teams, with Benfica reportedly interested in taking in the Argentine defender.

According to Gustavo Yarroch of ESPN, Benfica made an initial pitch calling for a one-year loan worth £1.28 million ($1.78 million) plus an option to buy pegged at £5.98 million ($8.31 million).

River Plate reportedly rejected the offer, but a new bid could be submitted.