Transfer Talk: Newcastle will set sights on striker after sealing Trippier deal

Newcastle are set to wrap up a deal for Atletico Madrid right-back Kieran Trippier — and next in their sights is a striker.

The newly-wealthy Magpies were set to prioritise defensive reinforcements during the January window but an injury to Callum Wilson means Eddie Howe is now desperate for a new frontman.

A report in the Telegraph claims the Tyneside club are working on several targets but their move for Trippier is at the most advanced stage.

Signing a player of the 31-year-old England international's stature is a statement of intent by Newcastle’s Saudi-led ownership as they look to boost the squad and avoid a disastrous relegation.

Trippier is a regular starter for Diego Simeone’s men and was a key figure as the Three Lions reached the final at Euro 2020. 

The former Tottenham man had also been linked with a move to Manchester United but could now be heading to the North East to reunite with Howe, who he played under at Burnley.

Newcastle’s new financial status has reportedly seen clubs quote inflated prices for their players but there is a growing confidence they can get deals over the line.

While no striking options are mentioned in the report, it is likely to be high on the Toon's agenda after Wilson suffered an injury in the 1-1 draw with the Red Devils.

They are still awaiting the results of a scan on the No9’s calf but he is set to be absent for at least a month. 

It is claimed Newcastle are also working on deals to sign Bournemouth centre-back Lloyd Kelly and Tottenham’s Joe Rodon on loan, while Lille defender Sven Botman is another target.

In other news

Barcelona winger Ousmane Dembele will not sign a new contract with the club and the Frenchman is set to leave for free next summer, according to journalist Gerard Romero.

The 24-year-old Frenchman will be free to discuss pre-contract agreements on January 1, with both Newcastle and United previously linked.

Transfer guru Fabrizio Romano says Napoli have made contact with Old Trafford chiefs over a move for Axel Tuanzebe, despite the defender currently being on loan at Aston Villa.

The Serie A side are keen on taking over the 24-year-old ace's short-term deal and want to convince United by including an option to buy.

Chelsea have enquired about the availability of France left-back Theo Hernandez, who Tuttosport claim has a £50million price tag at AC Milan.

The Express say Chelsea will also target moves for Wolfsburg’s Maxence Lacroix, Fenerbahce’s Attila Szalai and Sevilla’s Jules Kounde.