S Poddar
Reports have emerged over Kieran Trippier’s future at Newcastle United, with the full-back said to be close to a move to Turkey. Despite claims of “personal terms agreed” with newly promoted Süper Lig side Eyupspor, the Magpies appear keen to keep hold of their experienced right-back.
The root of the situation is with Trippier’s reduced playing time. Ever since being sidelined in March due to a calf injury, the 33-year-old has diminished his role. Having had a solitary substitute appearance thus far this season, the whispers reached new levels. With the form of young talent Tino Livramento, it only complicates things.
Trippier’s contract expires next summer, and with limited playing time this season, it appears like he will not be offered a new deal. Understandably, he is open to a move that will afford him more regular action. This logically fits with reports stating that he is open to the Turkish interest.
It is now that manager Eddie Howe appears to have tossed a spanner into the works. He has been pretty candid about wanting Trippier to remain at St. James’ Park. “Absolutely want Kieran here,” declared Howe, thus emphatically knocking back the rumors that suggested the club sanctioned a transfer. While such a stance underlines the emphasis Howe places on experience and leadership from Trippier even if he’s not currently a first-team regular,.
The immediate future is clouded. The window closes on September 13th in Turkey, by which time Newcastle cannot replace Trippier if he goes now. It throws up a logistical problem with any deal this month. January opens up one option. By then, Trippier can negotiate pre-contract agreements with foreign clubs, positioning himself for a summer exit.
Trippier’s story at Newcastle is one whereby he finds himself stuck between getting regular action and a manager who trusts him. Having arrived for £12 million in January 2022, he has gone on to make 94 appearances, chipping in with four goals as well. The experience and crossing ability of Trippier are undoubted assets; however, his fitness and the rise of Livramento pose a challenge.
The next few months will prove to be rather pivotal, then. Will Trippier win back his starting position and convince Howe of his long-term value, or will he look for pastures new in January if his need for playing time is unfulfilled? Only time will demonstrate just how this tantalizing tale will show itself.
