Newcastle United are reportedly considering offering veteran defender Kieran Trippier a new contract amid uncertainty about the future of teammate Tino Livramento, who has been linked to a move to Arsenal.
Trippier’s current deal is set to expire at the end of the campaign, meaning he could leave the club on a free transfer this summer. However, the club’s hierarchy is reluctant to lose both of their right-backs in the same transfer window, prompting talk of extending the experienced defender’s stay on Tyneside.
Trippier was the first major signing of Newcastle’s post-Mike Ashley era. His arrival on Tyneside in January 2022 was seen as a statement signing and proved to be pivotal in attracting other big stars to St James’ Park. Manager Eddie Howe is believed to be keen on keeping the former Atlético Madrid man at the club.
Tino gunner be a miss?
Livramento, along with Lewis Hall, are two of the hottest prospects in English football and are seen by many Newcastle fans as pivotal to the future spine of the team. The two young full-backs on opposite flanks are both confident embarking on mazy runs into the opposition half, turning defence into attack.
Livramento’s situation could ultimately have a major impact on Trippier’s future. The 23-year-old defender has endured another injury-disrupted campaign, forcing Howe to rely on Trippier more often than initially planned, with the former-England man putting in several solid performances.
Recent reports suggest Arsenal are preparing a possible move for Livramento as they look to strengthen their defensive options ahead of next season. The full-back reportedly shares the same agent as Gunners boss Mikel Arteta, which could help pave the way for him to move from St James’ Park to the Emirates.
Although Newcastle would prefer to keep highly-rated Livramento, uncertainty over his long-term future has now forced the club to consider contingency plans. One of those could involve offering Trippier a contract extension to ensure they maintain some depth and experience at the back.
Trippier’s conditions
However, Trippier’s willingness to commit to a new deal may depend on the assurances he receives about his role in the squad. Former scout Mick Brown has suggested the defender wants clarity over his playing time before making any decision about his future. At this stage of his career, Trippier is believed to prioritise regular football over a reduced role on the bench.
If Livramento remains at The Magpies and re-establishes himself as the first-choice right-back, Trippier could consider exploring opportunities elsewhere where he would feature more consistently.
For now, Trippier’s future remains uncertain, but developments surrounding Livramento could prove decisive in determining whether the veteran defender remains on Tyneside beyond this season.
