Newcastle United star Kieran Trippier reportedly came close to helping his new side land two blockbuster January signings. The Magpies were eventually forced to search elsewhere, but with their upturn in form edging them towards Premier League survival, Trippier’s magnetism could also come into play when the transfer window opens again in the summer.
Newcastle wasted no time in securing the ex-Tottenham man’s services last month, with the right-back making no secret about his desire to return to England.
Burnley striker Chris Wood followed shortly afterwards, before the arrivals of Matt Targett, Dan Burn and Bruno Guimaraes were sealed shortly before last month’s deadline.
Trippier has undoubtedly had the biggest impact so far, scoring two free-kicks in four games as the Magpies continue to build momentum.
The Athletic claim that he almost provided Eddie Howe with another boost last month, with targets Sven Botman and Diego Carlos both keen to join up with the former Atletico Madrid defender.
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The 31-year-old swiftly earned an admirer in Diego Simeone, becoming a trusted part of the team that battled to a La Liga title last campaign.
As a result, it is perhaps not surprising that Botman and Carlos were keen to work with the England international before last month’s moves ultimately fell flat.
Reports indicated that Lille would demand £35million for Botman and Sevilla slapped Carlos with a £40m price-tag, but both clubs’ reluctance to lose a star defender mid-season eventually proved pivotal.
The Magpies could revisit their interest in the summer if Trippier’s injury absence does not derail Eddie Howe’s survival bid.
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Burn was eventually signed on deadline day to call time on Newcastle’s emergency centre-back hunt, completing a £13m switch from Brighton.
And the 6ft 7in defender has already made a good impression, forming part of an organised back line which edged out Steven Gerrard’s Aston Villa on Sunday.
That was the Toon’s third win on the spin, and they have not tasted a Premier League defeat since before Christmas.
With their season’s win tally up to four, Newcastle sit four points clear of the relegation zone, having played a game less than Norwich who trail just behind.
This season’s survival prospects are therefore higher than ever, although Howe and co face a tricky upcoming assignment in which to keep their momentum going, travelling to West Ham’s London Stadium on Saturday.
And they will have to face it without Trippier, who has been the catalyst of an impressive turnaround in recent weeks.
The full-back was hauled off shortly after half-time against Villa after fracturing his metatarsal.
He then took to social media, stating: “I will remain positive and work as hard as I can on my rehab to be back fit as quickly as possible. Thank you all for your very kind messages of support!”
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