Newcastle may have found their own ‘Robinho’ after transfer twist today – pundit
Keiran Trippier could have a similar effect on Newcastle United as Robinho did at Man City and open the floodgates to more top-quality signings.
That is the view of ex-England and Aston Villa forward Gabby Agbonlahor, speaking exclusively to Football Insider as Trippier closes in on a move to Newcastle.
Spanish outlet reported AS reported today (4 January) the England defender has missed training with Atletico Madrid and will join his new club imminently.
Robinho moved to Man City in September 2008 the same day the club was taken over by the Abu Dhabi United Group to give credence to the project and pave the way for more marquee signings.
Asked whether Trippier can have a similar impact at St. James’ Park, Agbonlahor told Football Insider correspondent Connor Whitley: “100 per cent.
“Once Trippier goes, that will set the standard.
“Other players will be like ‘You know what, I’ll go there. Trippier’s gone there, I’ll join him’.
“Newcastle will get the players they want because money talks. He’s probably getting double what he’s on at Atletico Madrid.
“At 31-years-old it’s a no brainer for him. He won’t be bothered about playing for England. He’s played enough games and been at enough tournaments. He’ll look at Trent Alexander-Arnold, Kyle Walker and Reece James who are always going to be ahead of him.
“Yes, he might be losing his England place but I’ll still be earning ridiculous money from my last contract.
“This is a start. We all know he’s going there for the money. Let’s not beat around the bush. We know he’s not going there because he wants to play for Newcastle. If Newcastle didn’t have the takeover, would he go to Newcastle? No, he wouldn’t.
“But if they’ve got the money to spend and the funds then good luck to them.
“If they can get a player to come to Newcastle from Atletico Madrid then good luck to Newcastle. It can be their Robinho moment”.
In other news, Kieran Maguire has revealed Newcastle United chiefs PIF are ‘generating huge attention’ with news on three ‘big’ deals.