KIERAN Trippier is the subject of a waiting game, as Newcastle United hold out for prime target Mathieu Debuchy.

The Lille right back is wanted by the Magpies after they failed to agree new terms for Danny Simpson.

Question marks over the former Manchester United and Blackburn Rovers fullback’s future led to manager of the year Alan Pardew drafting up a list of targets, which included Burnley’s player of the season, Trippier.

But Newcastle have prioritised Debuchy, and if successful in securing the 26-year-old Frenchman’s signature will redirect their search for a more versatile defender – ideally one who is capable of playing at centre half, which would rule out former Manchester City youngster Trippier.

However, a number of top English and European clubs have also expressed an interest in the French fullback.

Champions League finalists Bayern Munich and Valencia, who finished third in La Liga, are also keen on Debuchy, while Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson travelled to France on a scouting mission in March for Lille’s game against Lyon, and is believed to be seriously considering making an offer.

Lille have indicated Debuchy would be allowed to end an almost 20-year association with the club, after progressing through the youth system, should a £6.5million bid be received.

Pardew was aiming to make an early start on his transfer business, but accepts he may have to wait until after the Euro 2012 tournament.

Debuchy has been named in France’s provisional squad, and is expected to make the cut to compete in Poland and Ukraine.

“We’ll be represented at the Euros,” Pardew said.

“There are a couple of players we’re looking at, and as far as I’m concerned, I hope they have an awful one!”

“The valuations will go up and down – we’ll look at that.

“Someone’s reputations will go through the roof, and someone’s won’t.

“That might affect the price.

“Most clubs want to hold off to see how their players do.”

Whether Newcastle retain an interest in Trippier as the summer progresses is very much dependent on the outcome of the Debuchy trail.

In any case, Burnley manager Eddie Howe is looking to add a right back to his squad.

An offer - the club’s only concrete transfer move so far - was put in for young Mansfield defender Luke O’Neill, but it fell short of the Stags’ valuation.

The Clarets are now debating going back with an improved offer.

They have also registered their interest in Portsmouth right back Joel Ward, although I understand a formal bid has not yet been made for the 22-year-old, who is also wanted by Leeds United, Ipswich and Crystal Palace.

Pompey boss Michael Appleton said: “Leeds are the main interest but there are a few others.

“I didn’t think Joel would be short of interested parties and that has turned out to be the case. There are a lot looking at him.

“Ipswich have always shown interest, Palace are there and Burnley have come in really strong.

“Eddie Howe worked with him in the past at Bournemouth, so you’ve got that link there.

“We have accepted Joel will be going, so now it is up to them to come up with an agreed deal.

“He’s been great for this club, he’s an honest lad and I’ve got a lot of time for him.

“He’ll have a good future wherever he ends up.”