Sources: Newcastle could green light Kieran Trippier transfer, replacement lined up
Newcastle United could be prepared to allow Kieran Trippier to leave at the end of the season as they set their sights on signing Brooke Norton-Cuffy.
The 35-year-old will be out of contract at the end of the season, leading to speculation Eddie Howe could let him go, while a new right-back is being targeted.
As I revealed on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Transfer Insider podcast, Newcastle‘s ongoing injury issues could force them into the market for a right-back.
Tino Livramento suffered a serious blow recently and joined the likes of Emil Krafth and Fabian Schar in the sidelines, accelerating the interest in Norton-Cuffy.
The likes of Everton and West Ham have also been credited with an interest in the 22-year-old, whose performances in Serie A have impressed watching scouts.
Newcastle set sights on Brooke Norton-Cuffy deal
Football Insider revealed on 23 January that Norton-Cuffy could turn down West Ham as he is unwilling to join a club who are fighting against relegation.
Newcastle’s position both in the Champions League and towards the top end of the Premier League table will therefore give them an advantage over rival clubs.
The Genoa star has emerged as one of the options on their radar, with the position growing more and more important for the recruitment team.
Speaking on the Inside Track podcast, I explained: “Yeah, I think he’s a player that’s proven himself over there in Italy with Genoa. He’s had a very good season for them in Serie A.
“I’m sure the player himself would love the opportunity to come back to England and show that he’s good enough to play in the Premier League.
“He came though the Arsenal ranks before joining Genoa in search of first-team football, and he’s had a quicker pathway there and done really well.
“That’s why we’re getting this interest from the likes of Newcastle, Everton and even West Ham.
“Newcastle, we know they have got defensive issues at the minute.
“Livramento is out for a couple of months, Emil Krafth’s injured, Fabian Schar is out and Dan Burn is working his way aback to fitness as well.
“I think if money is available, Newcastle would look to try and strengthen in that area.
“Kieran Trippier could be moved on next summer as well when his contract expires, so right-back could be an area of the team that Newcastle look to strengthen in, and Norton-Cuffy is somebody they’ve looked at.”
Kieran Trippier contract update emerges at Newcastle
While there have been suggestions Trippier could be allowed to leave at the end of the season, he has remained an important part of Howe’s squad.
A key part of the leadership group at St James’ Park, the former England international has made 19 appearances this season despite struggling with injury issues.
Football Insider revealed in October that Newcastle are keen to extend Trippier’s contract, but he is currently considering the next steps in his career.
Trippier and Newcastle turned down interest from Monaco in the closing stages of last summer’s transfer window in favour of remaining in the North East.
However, questions continue to be asked about his age and fitness, and it remains possible Newcastle could allow him to leave if a younger alternative is signed.
For more Newcastle United and exclusive news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.