Newcastle on red alert as Trippier agrees Bayern Munich transfer

Suraj Radia

• 20 Jan 2024 15:51 GMT
• 3 min read

Bayern Munich have moved a step closer to signing one of their top transfer targets after Kieran Trippier agreed terms over a move to the German giants, with talks now set to open with Newcastle over a deal.

Trippier has been one of the most important players for Newcastle since joining the club in January 2022 and the 33-year-old has been amongst the highest assist makers and chance creators in the Premier League this season.

However, the right-back has suffered from a decline in form in recent weeks, with speculation over his personal life persisting since his withdrawal from the England squad in November.

Newcastle have shown no desire to lose their vice-captain, particularly with suggestions that Bayern may only be interested in a loan deal, having stalled in talks with Paris Saint-Germain over a similar move for Nordi Mukiele.

Mukiele is still believed to be Bayern’s first choice but a move for Trippier is appealing considering his ties to Harry Kane and new arrival Eric Dier, both of whom were his former teammates at Tottenham.

And reports in Germany have now claimed that Trippier has given the ‘green light’ to a transfer, with a verbal agreement in place, although Newcastle will likely only consider a permanent sale.

Why Newcastle may reluctantly sanction Trippier departure

Trippier’s potential departure would be a significant blow to Newcastle considering his position as a leader and focal point of Eddie Howe’s team but the club could be open to his departure considering their struggles with financial fair play.

The Magpies have been keen to bring in a midfielder such as Kalvin Phillips this month but their limited constraints have prevented any move, however Trippier’s departure could allow Newcastle to make a much-needed addition to their side given their injury concerns.

Trippier has 18 months remaining on his contract but his long-term replacement is already at the club, with Newcastle having spent more than €30 million to sign Tino Livramento from Southampton in the summer.

With club CEO Darren Eales admitting this month that star players such as Bruno Guimaraes, Alexander Isak and Sven Botman could eventually be sold to appease Premier League profit and sustainability rules, Trippier’s sale would perhaps be a necessary move to help Newcastle continue to progress in the long-run.