Newcastle United have submitted a formal offer for Atletico Madrid defender Kieran Trippier, according to Sky Sports.
What’s the latest Newcastle United transfer news?
On the first day of the January transfer window, the club’s new owners have moved to strengthen the squad right away.
Indeed, a formal offer is said to have been lodged for the England international and talks between the two clubs are believed to be ongoing. Trippier has long been linked with a move to St James’ Park with some early reports suggesting he could cost as much as £25m.
How positive is this?
Very.
Obviously, the Unai Emery saga would suggest we shouldn’t get too excited about potential incomings before they sign on the dotted line, though it’s hard not to view Trippier as a massive upgrade.
A title-winner in Spain and a regular England international capable of playing on both the left and right hand side of defence, the 31-year-old is a proven player at Premier League and a palpable goal from set-pieces. While his age might not mean he’s a particularly long-term investment, the dire position Newcastle find themselves in requires all of the help they can get.
Trippier has also previously worked with Eddie Howe and fought relegation with Burnley, which could be a vital quality to have ahead of the next few months.
While not to get too far ahead of ourselves, it’s hugely promising to see the club acting so quickly.
What has Amanda Staveley said about the January window?
Writing on the club’s official website, Amanda Staveley and Mehrdad Ghodoussi sent a message to the club’s supporters ahead of the first transfer window under the PIF ownership.
“We have very important fixtures ahead of us and a January transfer window that we have worked tirelessly to prepare for, so let’s face our challenges head on and look forward to the second half of the season with optimism,” it read.