Eddie Howe faces a difficult decision over keeping and selling certain stars this summer.
With the Champions League returning to St James’ Park next season, Newcastle can’t afford to offload too much in terms of depth and experience.
However, with a good portion of the squad approaching the end of their current contract and/or on the wrong side of 30, it would be unwise not to capitalise on any potential sales.
So with the reports that one of the club’s top stars, and a firm favourite of Howe, is being courted by a top European side, should this player stay or go this summer?
Milan interested in Toon leader?
According to The Chronicle, AC Milan are interested in a move for Kieran Trippier.
The Rossoneri, who opted not to sign Kyle Walker on a permanent deal, are joined by a number of Saudi Arabian sides vying for Trippier’s signature.
Soon to be 35-years-old and about to enter the final year of his current deal, Trippier earns £5m per year with us, reports Lee Ryder.
That’s big money for a player who will become a back up once again when Lewis Hall returns from injury, with Tino Livramento set to be the No 1 choice moving forward.
That said, even that £5m has been money incredibly well spent for Trippier’s leadership, experience and dependability, as he was instrumental to our Carabao Cup triumph and eventual 5th place finish.
What Trippier contributes to the club right now, particularly since the beginning of the year, is something money can’t buy.
But in the PSR world we live in, every penny counts, so the temptation to recoup at least some money from the fullback must be tempting.
Howe’s previous stance
Back in January and transfer windows prior, Trippier had been linked to another European giant: Bayern Munich, who reportedly offered even more money for a then injury-prone, out of form Trippier.
But Howe was adamant about keeping the vice-captain, even if he struggled for form and fitness back in 2024.
“No part of us wanted to lose Kieran (in January).
“He is unique, there is no-one can do what he can do – set-play delivery, passing ability and his overall leadership in unique.
“The old school leadership where you’re talking and communicating with everybody, thinking about the whole team rather than just yourself, it is almost a bit of a dying art now.”
At this stage of his career, Trippier has already earned himself club hero status at Newcastle, so whilst a few extra million in the war chest would be nice, Trippier is a must-have talent ahead of potentially biggest season yet post-takeover.
