'First I've heard' - Newcastle United response to personal terms 'agreement' claim
Eddie Howe has reiterated his desire to keep Kieran Trippier at Newcastle United amid fresh rumours over a possible move to Turkey.
Turkish journalist Resat Can Ozbudak claimed on Sunday morning that Istanbul-based side Eyupspor – currently managed by the former Atletico Madrid and Barcelona star Arda Turan – have personal agreed terms with Trippier.
A few hours later however, Trippier was named in the matchday squad and was an unused substitute as the Magpies beat Tottenham Hotspur 2-1 at St James’ Park.
The 33-year-old, who retired from international football last week, has been heavily linked with a move away from Newcastle this summer. The UK summer transfer window closed on Friday but other Europe markets remain open for another fornight.
Responding to the stories in Turkey, Howe replied: “Yeah, I absolutely want Kieran here. That hasn’t changed and that won’t change. I woke up to the stories via a few messages as you do so it’s the first I’ve heard of it.”
Last month, Howe was left surprised by reports suggesting Trippier wants to leave after finding himself behind Tino Livramento at right-back as well as seeing Bruno Guimaraes promoted as team captain.
Trippier had often worn the armband following his £12million move from Atletico Madrid in January 2022.
“The situation is business as usual,” said Howe. “Tripps has trained really well this week. I'm surprised at a lot of the stories that have come out. He's a valuable member of the squad. His professionalism has been first class. He's trained really well since he's come back from the Euros.
“He's only had two weeks training, hence the decision to not start him at the weekend and Tino has had a very good pre-season. That's the situation. He continues to be really valued by all of us.
“A lot has been made of it [the captaincy]. It's not that big a deal internally. Jamaal is not going to be fit for a long period of time so he's been promoted to club captain so he's going to oversee the captain and is an incredible leader behind the scenes. “Kieran and Dan in the leadership group continue to lead and Bruno has been promoted. It's a healthy group, there's more people in it. The players are on the pitch and have to lead.”