Atletico Madrid approached Tottenham over a potential deal for Serge Aurier before deciding to sign Santiago Arias from PSV Eindhoven instead, according to reports in France.
Aurier joined Spurs from Paris Saint-Germain last summer but has struggled to displace Kieran Trippier at right-back in Mauricio Pochettino’s preferred starting line-up.
The 25-year-old started for Tottenham in Saturday’s 2-1 win over Newcastle United at St James’ Park and provided the assist for Dele Alli’s winning goal.
But many supporters will be calling for Trippier to return to the XI once he is fit enough to play again after a gruelling World Cup schedule with England.
Aurier hasn’t won over the majority of Spurs fans – some would have welcomed his exit this summer with Kyle Walker-Peters providing an alternative option at right-back.
And according to French outlet RMC Sport, via Sky Sports’ Transfer Centre (13:29, August 14th), one club was willing to test Tottenham’s resolve during the transfer window.
RMC claims Atletico Madrid enquired about Aurier, although there is no indication whether Spurs were willing to sell the Ivory Coast international. Atletico ended up signing Arias instead.
It will be interesting to see whether Pochettino can develop Aurier into a top full-back, as he has with many players already during his time in England.
