Newcastle United are starting to see top players being linked with moves away from the club.
Indeed, with FFP problems reportedly frustrating those behind the scenes at the club right now, Newcastle may need to sell up before they can buy again.
Still, seeing names such as Kieran Trippier and Callum Wilson touted for exits is something of a shock.
Two veterans of the squad, Bayern Munich and Atletico Madrid have been tipped as landing spots respectively.
Trippier is said to have even agreed a move to join the German giants, albeit the club are believed to want to keep the pair.
Now, some more insight has emerged.
Newcastle transfer news: Trippier and Wilson latest
According to The Athletic, senior figures at St James’ Park have spoken to the pair about their futures.
Neither are thought to necessarily be agitating for a move at this stage although there is said to be an appeal at the prospect of joining elite European clubs.
Kieran Trippier and Callum Wilson: Necessary sales
As gutting as it would be to see two players who have starred on Tyneside leave halfway through a disappointing season, there may be some merit selling them.
Both are over 30 and haven’t exactly shone this season. Trippier has admitted his standards have dropped, while Wilson’s poor injury record continues to frustrate.
If Bayern and Atletico can offer the kind of deals that would allow the club to sell the pair, they should be taken. Newcastle simply aren’t going to get the chance to raise funds from two players their age again.
It looks increasingly unlikely that Eddie Howe’s side will be able to get back into the Champions League, while any defeat in the FA Cup from now on would leave them without the prospect of another trip to Wembley.
At this stage, what have the club got to lose by moving veterans on? Very little, it would seem.
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