Kieran Trippier’s Newcastle United future is up in the air right now.
With the January transfer window now open, Kieran Trippier is one of multiple Toon players being linked with a move away from St James’ Park.
Trippier asked to leave Newcastle during the summer, but was denied a transfer by Eddie Howe and Paul Mitchell. They opted to keep the 34-year-old, despite his desire for a fresh start elsewhere.
Howe still wants to keep Trippier, but the veteran defender is an ideal candidate to depart due to his age and lofty wages. Getting rid of the former Atletico Madrid player would help Newcastle’s PSR position, but it is not a straightforward situation.
Newcastle United could sign Kieran Trippier replacement
Selling Trippier would leave Newcastle United short at right-back. It would make Emil Krafth the first choice backup for Tino Livramento, which is a concern. But that is not because of Krafth’s ability. Instead, it is because he is also the backup centre-back for Fabian Schar.
Newcastle’s defensive options are stretched, which is why a new report will delight Trippier.
According to Sky Sports, one position Newcastle United are looking at possible signings in is right-back.
Trippier’s Newcastle situation is complex
That is a smart decision, as Newcastle will need to replace Trippier eventually. Signing a new right-back could open the door for the £12million man to depart, which is what he has wanted since the summer.
In an ideal world, the honour of replacing Trippier would go to Toon youth player Leo Shahar. He is someone with a lot of potential, but it is too early for him to step up and fill Trippier’s shoes at the age of 17-years-old.
Therefore, Newcastle might have to dip into the transfer market. However, that will be difficult, as replacing Trippier means replacing his quality on the pitch and his influence off it. Players like him are hard to come by, and we are lucky to have had him during the formative years of PIF’s ownership.
Even though Newcastle are on the lookout, it would be a surprise to see a right-back arrive this month. The Magpies’ priorities are elsewhere, with Newcastle targeting Abdukodir Khusanov.
The 20-year-old centre-back is on Paul Mitchell’s radar, and it remains to be seen if him arriving would create an opportunity for Trippier to leave. Signing Khusanov would mean Krafth can focus on being a right-back, which could free up Trippier to get his wish.
When it comes to Trippier’s immediate future, there are a lot of moving parts and dominoes that must fall into place.
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