A trio of first team players appear to be at risk of January exits as Newcastle’s transfer plans begin to come clearer as the New Year approaches.
The Telegraph’s Luke Edwards has reported that Toon have genuine interest in signing Belgian winger Johan Bakayoko, with the same report indicating that three may be on the way out – potentially to facilitate a move for the PSV man.
This comes after more discussion around the Premier League’s dreaded PSR rules, which could force Newcastle to consider winter sales if we wish to make a big-money signing of our own this winter.
According to Luke Edwards at The Telegraph, Miguel Almiron, Kieran Trippier and Harvey Barnes are three players who could depart ahead of the January window; where sales may be essential to enable a big-money signing to arrive.
The club are believed to be ‘braced for interest’ for Barnes, who is thought to be ‘frustrated’ by his lack of starts so far this season. But, with five Premier League goals and one assist this season despite limited minutes, it’s no surprise to read clubs are keeping an eye on his availability.
Almiron and Trippier have seldom featured this season. In fact Miggy’s 73rd minute appearance, for Barnes against Brentford, was his first appearance since October, with the club now hoping to cut their losses and recoup £12m after failing to move the Paraguayan on during the summer.
34-year-old Trippier is said to be ‘open’ to the possibility of a move, with his departure offering Toon a chance to wipe the slate with one of their biggest earners – a potentially key step if the club are to rebuild on what has been a stale start to the season.
Former Leicester man Barnes would provide the biggest shock of the three. Arriving for circa £40million and showing his quality on occasions, the winger netted as recently as the Brentford game – though making amends for an earlier error leading to a goal for the hosts.
At 27-years-old however, if Howe doesn’t deem him to be a starter and with little room to grow then now may be the best opportunity to recoup a chunk of the initial investment made in July 2023…
Ths in fact may be one of the final opportunities to gather funds for Almiron, with Newcastle reportedly hoping to regain £12million for the Paraguay international who initially cost £20million from Atlanta United – and I think it’s time for some fresh legs on the wing.
The absence of Trippier in the Magpies back four is most noted with the lack of leadership, with sloppy defending causing problems on too many occasions this season. Tino Livramento has impressed though, and with Tripps’ healthy wage packet in consideration, I would have no qualms with relying on other experiences members of the squad.