Kieran Trippier contract decision as Newcastle get ruthless amid Tino Livramento future fears
The experienced former England defender is in the final few months of his current deal at the club
Newcastle United’s Kieran Trippier
He was the first of the new arrivals follwing the PIF-backed takeover of Newcastle United, when the tranfer window opened in January 2022 – but time could be running out on Kieran Trippier’s spell at St James’ Park.
Few players have had a bigger impact on the club in the last four years than the former England international, who set the tone for the new standards from day one. He was instrumental in guiding United away danger in his first few months on Tyneside, and has gone to help win silverware and twice qualify for the Champions League.
However, with his current contract due to expire in the summer, Newcastle must now assess whether they will offer him a new deal. He turns 36 in September, but still offers plenty both on and off the field.
It’s a dilemma for Eddie Howe and sporting director Ross Wilson, especially after some excellent recent performances. Here are the thoughts of our NUFC writers on the issue.
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Lee Ryder
It should be a no-brainer to keep Kieran Trippier – but are Newcastle in a position to do it?
Trippier needs a two-year deal and that would be costly for the Magpies but if he can replicate what he has this season, it could be worth it. He will play second fiddle to Tino Livramento when the England defender is fit of course.
But what is the alternative when Tino is out? Given Trippier can play left-back as well, there are worse cover players.
Then you must factor in his experience and dressing room acumen. This would be an expensive contract to do but unless Newcastle have some big plans for a new right-back, they may have no choice.
Should Newcastle United offer Kieran Trippier a contract extension this summer?
Should Newcastle United offer Kieran Trippier a contract extension this summer?
No, thanks for everything but goodbye
Unsure, let’s see what happens
Sean McCormick
I think much will depend on where Tino Livramento’s future lies in the summer. Livramento has been linked with a move to Manchester City and if he leaves Newcastle, can the Magpies afford to be in a position where they need to sign two right-backs?
It is probably fair to say Trippier’s best days are behind him, aged 35, but he showed there is still life in the old dog yet with his tireless performance against Manchester United on Wednesday.
His leadership and experience in this group is vital and his legacy at St James’ Park is secure. If the direction of travel suggests Livramento is leaving in the summer, Newcastle can do a lot worse than extending Trippier’s stay by another season.
But if Newcastle get assurances that Livramento’s future beyond this season remains on Tyneside then it is perhaps best for all parties for a clean break and look to replace Trippier with a younger alternative.
Ross Gregory
The greatest right-back Newcastle have ever had – and one of their greatest leaders. However, time stands still for no man – regardless of how he might want to turn back the clock and stay young.
The summer feels like the perfect time to part company with Trippier, whose place in the history books is assured. Regardless of the Tino Livramento situation, invest in a younger model and let Tripps have one last hurrah in the sun somewhere.
There’s no room for sentiment in football and Newcastle need to be ruthless.
Stuart Jamieson
I feel much will come down to what Trippier wants to do. On one hand, Newcastle should not be relying on what will be a 36-year-old defender next season. Regardless of what happens with Tino Livramento this summer – and let’s hope that’s precisely nothing – United need to have younger options at right-back.
However, his influence on the side and squad as a whole remains strong, and I would love to see him added to the coaching staff, while continuing to be available for selection if needed. Youngster Leo Shahar namechecked Trippier following his debut last month, and many others have acknowledged his role in their development.
That’s not something you should give away lightly, but if he wants one more throw of the dice elsewhere, then Newcastle should also not stand in his way.
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