Spanish Giants Target Anthony Martial In January Swap Deal

Atletico Madrid are interested in signing Manchester United forward Anthony Martial as part of an exchange deal in January, according to reports.

The Spanish giants, who were recently drawn against United in the last 16 of the Champions League, are said to be admirers of the France international.

Eurosport claim Atletico have been given encouragement that Martial will be available in January and the Spanish club are expected to discuss the matter with United later this month.

Martial is said to be unhappy with his lack of game time at Old Trafford (Image credit: PA)

It is believed Atletico will offer United the opportunity of a swap deal if the Premier League club are interested in any available players at the Wanda Metropolitano.

Martial has found himself out of favour this season and has made only 10 appearances in all competitions, scoring just once.

He still has at least three years left on his contract at Old Trafford, having signed a new deal in 2019 that includes an option to extend for a further year.

However, he is expected to seek a move away from the club in January.

Speaking earlier this month, Martial’s agent Philippe Lamboley said the French forward wants to leave Old Trafford after becoming frustrated by his lack of game time.

"Anthony wishes to leave the club in January,” Lamboley told Sky Sports News.

Atletico Madrid boss Diego Simeone is interested in the France international (Image credit: PA)

"He just needs to play. He doesn't want to stay in January and I will speak to the club soon."

Newcastle United, Arsenal, Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain have also been linked with a January move for the 26-year-old.

This week United interim manager Ralf Rangnick was asked about Lamboley’s claim that Martial wants to leave, and replied: “I don't communicate with agents via the media and press.

“The player hasn't spoken with me or us about it.”

One player touted a potential option for a swap deal involving Martial is Atletico defender Kieran Trippier.

Spanish newspaper Mundo Deportivo claims United were keen to sign Trippier in the summer and may make another approach for the England international in January.

Trippier, 31, has made 83 appearances for Atletico since joining from Tottenham in 2019, and was part of the side that won the La Liga title last season.

Topics: Anthony Martial, Manchester United, Atletico Madrid, Premier League, La Liga, Transfers, Football

Rory O'Callaghan

Rory O'Callaghan is Editorial Lead at SPORTbible. He has previously worked for Sky Sports News, MailOnline and Reach covering football, cricket, boxing and MMA. Tested daily as a Liverpool fan in a Manchester office.

@rory_ocallaghan