Manchester United came close to signing Kieran Trippier last summer.
The England right back has confirmed the Old Trafford giants were in for him when first explored the possibility of returning home from Madrid. Asked about United's interest he said: “Yes they were. There were a couple of clubs. Me and the manager (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.”
Trippier, 31, grew up in a Manchester United supporting family and was scouted by them as a young child, but went to City’s academy because it was more local and he has friends there.
He first worked with Eddie Howe at Burnley as a rising star, before moving to Spurs, Atletico and the lure of the new regime on Tyneside.
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.”
