Kieran Trippier could play a pivotal role in Newcastle United signing one of their major transfer targets this summer.
James Maddison continues to be heavily linked with a move to St James’ Park, with Newcastle planning to make a bid for the 26-year-old. He is set to leave Leicester City, and is reportedly valued at £60million.
Dan Ashworth failed to get him last year, but now the Magpies are set to return to the table with a fresh offer and the lure of Champions League football.
That will hopefully be enough to tempt Maddison to make the move, but it appears that Eddie Howe also has another ace up his sleeve when it comes to trying to convince the England international.
James Maddison has spoke to Kieran Trippier about Newcastle
According to i News, Newcastle defender Trippier has previously spoke to Maddison about a move to Newcastle whilst on international duty. The report adds that Maddison is interested in a move.
It appears that Trippier’s influence knows no bounds. He is the club’s leader on and off the pitch, and was named player of the season for his efforts during the 2022/23 campaign. Now he appears to be doing Sporting Director Dan Ashworth’s job, speaking to potential recruits about a move to Newcastle.
This is something that comes with the territory of having international players. They go away to represent their country, and inevitably play alongside players who their club are interested in signing.
We have seen Trippier do this before, albeit inadvertently. When Nick Pope was linked with a move to Newcastle last year, he spoke to the 32-year-old about the club – without letting on that he could be on his way.
Obviously Trippier’s words helped him make up his mind, and Pope has enjoyed a brilliant first year at St James’ Park.
Now another England international could be on his way in Maddison. The ‘exceptional‘ midfielder would be a really exciting addition to Howe’s squad, and he is a player who fans have been keen to see in black and white ever since he was first linked last year.