Newcastle United secure Kieran Trippier as the first signing since Saudi-Arabian takeover
- Sean Fisher
- 7 January 2022
As Newcastle United look to escape the clutches of relegation, Kieran Trippier is the first through the door at St James' Park, with more expected to follow.
Newcastle United have confirmed the arrival of Kieran Trippier from Atletico Madrid on a two-and-a-half-year deal, with the fee understood to be around £12million plus add-ons.
He marks Eddie Howe's first signing as Newcastle United manager.
The 31-year-old England international has already landed in Tyneside and, should the paperwork be completed in time, he could make his debut against Cambridge United in the FA Cup on Saturday afternoon.
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— Newcastle United FC (@NUFC) January 7, 2022
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Howe first managed Trippier during his spell as Burnley boss, and upon their reunion, the 44-year-old was delighted by the club's business.
"He's got a winner's mindset without a doubt. He's a very positive person and he's hugely motivated by the challenge ahead, so I didn't have to do a massive selling job on the club or the position we're in.
"Kieran hasn't come for the financial benefits of the contract. He's come for the club and for the challenge that the team faces at the current time, but also the longer-term vision, so I think that's a massive thing for the football club."
Howe also hopes that acquiring Trippier will encourage further incomings.
"Hopefully with his signing, other players around the world will potentially look at that and share his dream and his vision for what he sees. That's a big thing for us."
With money no issue for the Magpies under their new Saudi-funded owners, Howe also faced plenty of questions about his other transfer targets, and while he refused to comment on individuals, he was confident of more signings coming in soon.
"Yes, I'd say at this moment I am. But we're in the hands of clubs selling players, we're in the hands of agents and players wanting to come.
"There are no guarantees. It might sound simple from the outside; it's very, very different when you're on the inside, so I'm confident, but there are no promises."
🗣 "It's an honour for me to be here."
— Newcastle United FC (@NUFC) January 7, 2022
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