Michael Kayode of ACF Fiorentina in action during the UEFA Europa Conference League Play-Off
Newcastle United are tracking potential right-back targets ahead of January as speculation continues to swirl over the future of Kieran Trippier. The Magpies have well-documented profit and sustainability rule [PSR] concerns but any outgoings in the winter trading period will unlock much needed resources for Eddie Howe and Paul Mitchell to refresh the St James' Park dressing room.
Newcastle previously cast their eye over highly-rated right-back Ivan Fresneda before his move to Sporting Lisbon and Almeria youngster Marc Pubill is a player the hierarchy admire. There was late interest in RB Leipzig's Mohamed Simakan before he moved to Saudi Arabia in the summer, while Fiorentina full-back Michael Kayode, 20, is another to have made the shortlist previously.
Tino Livramento's 2023 arrival removed the immediate need for a purchase in that area of the pitch but a January exit for Trippier would again leave Howe short for the remainder of the season. The former Tottenham Hotspur defender had a number of suitors interested in his signature over the summer as Howe fought tooth and nail to keep him at the club.
Teams in Saudi Arabia, Dubai, the MLS, as well as Everton and West Ham United were keen on a move for Trippier's services. The 34-year-old was locked in a fierce battle with Livramento for a starting spot at the beginning of the campaign and had initially dislodged his rival for clashes with Fulham, Manchester City and Everton before injury issues saw him drop out of the side.
Now, with all eyes on who Newcastle can move out, Trippier - one of Newcastle's highest earners - could depart in a move that would free up funds for the club, while allowing the experienced defender to find consistent first-team football elsewhere.
That would leave the north east outfit with just Livramento and Emil Krafth as the senior options at right-back, with Harrison Ashby currently impressing while on loan at Queens Park Rangers. Newcastle also have 17-year-old Leo Shahar in their youth ranks, with the former Wolverhampton Wanderers teenager destined for big things further down the line.
Trippier recently returned from a hamstring issue and has been introduced from the sidelines in recent games. Now, there is optimism the veteran can stay fit between now and January to both help his side on the pitch and facilitate a potential move away.
“He’s improving physically. He hasn’t played consistently now for quite a long time, so getting him back in that rhythm where he can feel 100 per cent fit will take a little bit of time," Howe said of Trippier recently. "But he’s certainly closer than he was, and touch wood, he’s solved the hamstring problem that he had.”