Phillips excited after update on ‘huge’ Newcastle swoop for Trippier
Kevin Phillips has insisted Eddie Howe will deserve “huge credit” if he can persuade Kieran Trippier to join Newcastle in January.
The former Sunderland striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, claimed a swoop for the 31-year-old would be a “big statement”.
This site revealed on Wednesday (15 December) that Newcastle are growing increasingly confident of signing Atletico Madrid defender Kieran Trippier next month.
A recruitment source has told Football Insider that talks are underway with Atletico Madrid over a deal for Trippier even though he is out until January with a shoulder injury.
The 35-time England international is keen to return to England and wants to complete the deal early in the winter transfer window.
Phillips insisted the defender’s arrival will be a “huge boost” at St James’ Park.
“You have to give Howe huge credit,” he told Football Insider‘s Dylan Childs.
“To persuade Trippier to leave Atletico Madrid to come into a relegation battle is massive – but I think it probably helps that he will be on a lot more money than he was before. That probably eases the situation.
“I hope he comes with the hunger and desire to succeed rather than just to pick up a wage packet – which I don’t think he will.
“It would certainly be a big statement to get him through the door because they’ve been all over the place at the back this season.
“They need to strengthen, and he’d be a huge boost for them.”
Newcastle sit second from bottom in the Premier League after 17 games.
Trippier‘s contract expires at the end of the season, but will automatically renew if he manages 20 starts for Atleti this term.
In other news, Newcastle agree landmark senior hire ahead of the January window.