Eddie Howe is reportedly targeting a move for Kieran Trippier for Newcastle United in the January transfer window.

The Lowdown: Good relationship

Howe and Trippier both have a good relationship dating back to their time at Burnley. Howe once claimed that the now Atletico Madrid right-back is ‘one of the best crossers of the ball’ that he has ever worked with (The Bournemouth Echo), while Trippier thinks that Howe is a ‘great manager’ and has expressed his admiration for helping him personally (The Burnley Express).

Thus, it is no surprise that the Englishman has now been linked with working with Trippier again, and given the finances that the St. James' Park faithful have to offer, it is a deal that one could certainly see happening in January.

The Latest: Trippier targeted

As per The Daily Mirror, Howe is now targeting a January move for Trippier, as the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's (KSA) Public Investment Fund (PIF) believe that they can tempt him back to the Premier League as they line up a potential deal.

Howe wants the England international to help him in the North East club's relegation battle, and is reportedly trying to bolster his squad with 'leaders' and 'big personalities'.

Manchester United could still revive their past interest in Trippier, of whom is currently rated at £30m, and he has made no secret of his desire to return to the top flight one day.

The Verdict: No-brainer

Bringing Trippier back to the division to reunite with Howe would certainly be a no-brainer as far as the Tyneside outfit is concerned.

At 31 years of age, he now has plenty of experience of playing at the highest level, and would add an extra winning mentality to the side after winning La Liga with Atletico last season ahead of the likes of Real Madrid and FC Barcelona.

Described as a 'top talent' by former Premier League player Paddy Kenny, he would also offer more to the team on the pitch, especially from an offensive point of view.

Trippier has averaged more crosses, long balls and a higher pass success than Emil Krafth, Jacob Murphy and Javier Manquillo in their respective domestic leagues so far this campaign (WhoScored), and so there should be no time wasted in bringing him in.

In other news, find out which 'really crazy' beast NUFC have joined the race to sign here!