Newcastle close in on Kieran Trippier transfer as they thrash out relegation clause with Atletico Madrid star

NEWCASTLE are closing in on signing England international Kieran Trippier, according to reports.

The Magpies are waist deep in a relegation battle and desperately need players through the door in the January transfer window.

GETTY IMAGES

Trippier could have a relegation release clause inserted into his Newcastle contract[/caption]

And according to The Athletic, Newcastle are growing confident that they could sign Trippier.

Newcastle have the joint-worse defence in the Premier League and strengthening the backline is one of boss Eddie Howe’s top priorities.

The 31-year-old would join on a permanent basis, but should Newcastle drop into the second tier, ‘both sides are looking to protect themselves’.

Trippier – who played in the Prem previously for Burnley and Tottenham – may not be willing to play Championship football should the Magpies fail to stay up and a relegation release clause could be inserted into his contract.

Newcastle could, however, face stiff competition from Manchester United.

The Red devils have been interested in Trippier for some time and even launched bids in the summer to sign him.

---

JOIN SUN VEGAS: GET A FREE £10 BONUS WITH 100s OF GAMES TO PLAY AND NO DEPOSIT REQUIRED (Ts&Cs apply)

---

Trippier would provide good cover for first-team right-back Aaron Wan-Bissaka.

And United can offer Champions League football in the 2021-22 season.

Trippier’s high energy would fit well into new boss Ralf Rangnick’s ultra-pressing style.

Read our Manchester United live blog for the latest news and transfer gossip from Old Trafford