Everton tipped to push Newcastle for Trippier ‘coup’ after what he’s told friends – pundit
Noel Whelan has tipped Everton to rival Newcastle United for the signing of Kieran Trippier in January.
The former Leeds striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, admitted the 31-year-old would be a “fantastic coup” for any club next month.
As revealed by Football Insider on Wednesday (15 December), Newcastle have opened talks over a deal for the right-back.
A recruitment source told this site Trippier is keen to return to the UK and has told friends he wants a move completed early in the January window.
However, 90 Min (8 December) claim Everton are also keen if Atletico show a desire to sell.
Whelan suggested Trippier would “definitely” improve the Toffees and tipped Rafael Benitez’s men to push for a move.
“He’s a quality player, an international player as well,” Whelan told Football Insider’s Russell Edge.
“He has played at the highest standard and won the league with Atletico. It does scream a no-brainer, if you’re looking for that experience and someone who’s going to improve your side.
“If you’ve got somebody of Trippier’s quality available, it would be silly not to try and get him to Everton. No disrespect to Seamus Coleman, I think he’s been excellent.
“Coleman doesn’t look like he’s losing any pace, he’s a leader out there, he’s asking questions of his teammates.
“At the same time, to have somebody like Trippier on that right-hand side, along with Townsend, that would be a brilliant coup.
“I am sure there will be a lot more clubs keen on his services. He would definitely improve the side at Everton.”
Trippier has played 15 times for Atletico this season.
He made 28 league appearances last term on the way to the La Liga title.
In other news, pundit predicts Benitez facing dressing room backlash after update on “bust up”.