Newcastle transfer news: Magpies want to sign a new backup for Kieran Trippier

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Newcastle United reportedly want to sign a right-back as backup for Kieran Trippier.

That is according to the Telegraph, who believe that the Magpies want to add more depth in key positions in case any of their star players suffer injuries.

One of those is Trippier, and the club want to sign a replacement backup option for the 32-year-old. The Telegraph add that a right-back is top of their transfer wishlist right now, while they also want a defensive and creative midfielder.

Newcastle did have adequate options behind Trippier at the start of the season. Emil Krafth was the club’s second choice right-back, having excelled last season during Trippier’s injury absence.

But the Sweden international has been out since August with a serious knee injury, leaving Eddie Howe light in that position. His next option is Javi Manquillo, who has only started once this season. That came in the recent League Cup game against Crystal Palace.

Howe wants more depth on the right of defence, which explains a recent transfer rumour involving the Magpies.

Newcastle linked with signing possible Trippier backup

It was claimed late last week that Newcastle are interested in signing Cody Drameh from Leeds. He is a 20-year-old defender, and has various clubs from Europe chasing his signature.

Newcastle are seemingly one of them, and Drameh fits the profile of what the club are looking for.

He is a right-back, and is of an age where he could eventually go on to replace Trippier. The Telegraph add that Newcastle want to sign someone who can learn from the England international.

Given his impact at St James’ Park and the way he has been playing, I can’t think of many better to learn from than Trippier. And that could give Newcastle an edge in the race to sign Drameh.

The only issue is minutes on the pitch. Newcastle are explicitly looking for a backup. Who is going to want to arrive knowing they aren’t going to be a first-team regular?

It could be a hard sell, meaning Dan Ashworth will need to work his magic and convince whoever that there is a clear path for them to eventually become Newcastle’s first choice right-back.