Kieran Trippier: Fabian Schar and Matt Targett send messages as defender announces Newcastle exit

Kieran Trippier has announced that he will leave Newcastle United when his contract expires at the end of the season.

The right-back joined the Magpies from Atletico Madrid in 2022 and was the first player to arrive under the ownership of the Saudi Arabia PIF.

The 35-year-old has made 157 appearances for Newcastle and has often captained the squad as they have gone from relegation contenders to Champions League regulars.

Eddie Howe had wanted to keep Trippier at the club this summer, but the defender appears to have made the decision himself.

Newcastle transfer chiefs will already be drawing up a list of potential summer options as they look to replace the long-time stalwart.

Matt Targett and Fabian Schar react

Football Insider exclusively revealed last month that Howe pushed for Trippier to stay, but the manager has ultimately come up short in his efforts.

The former England international is coming to the end of his career, and presumably is targeting one more move before hanging up his boots.

Despite his age, Trippier has been heavily involved for Newcastle this summer, making 18 appearances in the Premier League and 34 across all competitions.

His exit, combined with the potential departure of Tino Livramento, could leave Howe with difficulties in defence this summer.

The 23-year-old is reportedly of interest to Arsenal, who are considering the future of Ben White.

In an announcement to Instagram on Saturday, Newcastle announced Trippier's departure. He said: "I've had an amazing few years here. Managed to win a trophy, and some special moments.

"A big thank you, firstly for the supporters, for how they welcomed me when I first arrived. Even till now, me playing-wise, going through good moments, bad moments, they've always stuck by me."

Fabian Schar commented on the post and wrote: "Gonna be a big miss". Matt Targett, who is on loan at Middlesbrough, wrote: "Trips".

Kieran Trippier exit could spell trouble for Eddie Howe

For the most part, Trippier's exit is a normal decision, made based on his age and capability of continuing in the Premier League.

For Howe, however, the announcement may mean something deeper. The manager attempted to convince his defender to stay and has failed in those efforts, which will be of note to those above him.

Trippier was Howe's first signing in charge of the Magpies, and his exit signals a departure of one of the old guard.

The 48-year-old was already under pressure at St James' Park, and the departure of one of his biggest fans in the dressing room will not help the situation.