Newcastle manager Eddie Howe has spoken out about recent rumours that Kieran Trippier is set to leave the club.

Trippier has been a key player for Eddie Howe at Newcastle United in recent years, scoring four goals and providing 21 assists in 92 games in all competitions.

However, the 33-year-old is believed to be eyeing a move away from St James’ Park and was an unused substitute in the Magpies’ 1-0 win over Southampton in the opener of the 2024/25 Premier League season on Saturday – followed by his role in Newcastle U21s’ 1-1 draw with Sunderland U21s on Monday.

West Ham have been heavily linked with Trippier this summer, but their interest may have cooled following the arrival of Aaron Wan-Bissaka from Manchester United.

Everton are also said to have serious interest in the England international.

Eddie Howe responds to Kieran Trippier rumours

Despite the intensity of the recent rumours, Howe has insisted that Trippier has not requested a transfer from the club, with the experienced full-back training ‘really well’ and remaining part of his future plans.

“The situation is business as usual,” Howe told reporters (via Sky Sports).

“Trips has trained really well this week. I’m surprised by the amount of stories that have come out. (He is) a valuable member of the squad. His professionalism is first class. He has trained really well since he came back from the European Championships. I think he has only trained for two weeks, hence the decision not to start him in the weekend, and also Tino’s (Livramento) has had a really good preparation.

“That’s the situation – he is still very much appreciated by all of us.”

Asked whether Trippier had expressed a desire to stay or leave Newcastle, Howe said: “Neither. He hasn’t had to. He’s just trained normally and he’s been very good.

“I don’t really know where this comes from. He’s preparing for Saturday’s game.”

And when asked if he wants Trippier to stay, Howe said: “I hope so. I can never answer these questions with absolute certainty because it’s football and the transfer window is always unpredictable, but my wish is that he stays here and continues to play for us.”

The former Bournemouth manager continued: “You want to select as many fit and available players from as good a group as you can, and Kieran certainly fits that bill.

“He had an excellent first season, last year he was slightly disrupted by an injury towards the end of the campaign, but his leadership qualities, his ball skills, his assist record and everything he brings to the group is something we absolutely want here.”