Kieran Trippier’s contract expires in the summer, and the Premier League club will allow him to move on. The veteran English full-back’s future may be away from the Premier League.
According to a report from French publication Media Foot, AS Monaco are leading the race for his signature. The Ligue 1 giants are in pole position to sign the right-back, and it remains to be seen whether they can secure an agreement with the defender.
The former English international, who joined Newcastle United in a £12 million deal a few years ago, is eligible to secure a pre-contract agreement with foreign clubs, and he could prove to be a very useful short-term acquisition for the club.
Trippier could compete with Vanderson for the starting spot next season. His experience and leadership qualities could prove invaluable to the French outfit. The Monegasque outfit need a deeper squad with more quality, and the former England international could be a handy option for them.
Apart from his defensive ability, he is exceptional on the ball, and his long-range passing could add a new dimension to the Monaco attack. He is also quite effective with set pieces.
Tackles: 1.3 (per 90)
Interceptions: 0.6 (per 90)
Pass Accuracy: 82%
Duels won: 3.7 (per 90)
Balls recovered: 3.7 (per 90)
Key Passes: 1.5 (per 90)
Accurate crosses: 1.7 (per 90)
Trippier is in the twilight stages of his career, and he needs to play regularly. It remains to be seen whether AS Monaco can offer him a suitable role in the team. The Englishman is unlikely to be a regular starter for them, but he could still be a very important squad option.
Meanwhile, Newcastle United will need to replace him properly. Although Eddie Howe has Valentino Livramento at his disposal, the Magpies need more depth in that area of the pitch. Investing in another quality right-back should be a top priority for them during the summer transfer window.
They are not just losing a reliable performer in Trippier, they will also lose his experience, leadership skills and mentality. The veteran English full-back has shown his quality in the Premier League and in La Liga. He has the technical attributes to thrive in France as well.
The 35-year-old will look to hit the ground running at AS Monaco if the transfer goes through. He is likely to be on the shortlist of multiple clubs this summer, and it remains to be seen whether the Ligue 1 outfit can act quickly and get the deal done.
