Guillem Balague has revealed that Newcastle United have now started talks with Kieran Trippier's representatives over the possibility of signing him.
The Lowdown: Howe relationship
Eddie Howe is certainly expected to be the next permanent manager to take over at St. James' Park, with reports claiming that he is incoming.
Of course, he knows Trippier very well from his time coaching him at Burnley, as the right-back made 61 appearances in total under the Englishman, scoring four goals and supplying 11 assists in all competitions over two consecutive seasons (Transfermarkt).
Trippier spoke highly of him while he was at the Clarets, claiming that he is a 'great manager' who helped him personally (The Burnley Express).
Likewise, Howe has expressed his fondness for the England international, admiring his dedication and claiming that he is 'one of the best crossers of the ball' that he has ever worked with (The Bournemouth Echo).
The Latest: Talks underway
Speaking on BBC Radio 5 Live (via HITC), journalist and La Liga expert Balague has revealed that the North East club have started talks with Trippier's people over potentially signing him from Atletico:
“I hear from Atletico Madrid that Newcastle are really interested in getting Trippier and they have started negotiations with his people. I am not sure if they will get him or not.”
The Verdict: No-brainer
With the potential of Howe reuniting with Trippier, it is certainly a no-brainer for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) consortium to get a deal over the line.
He will know how to get the best out of the 31-year-old, and Trippier's relationship with him means that he will work his hardest for the side.
Having won the La Liga title with Atletico ahead of the likes of Real Madrid and FC Barcelona last season, he now brings a lot of experience and a winning mentality, something that the Magpies will need if their ambition is to start winning some trophies.
Offensively, he is also a big upgrade on the likes of Emil Krafth, Jacob Murphy and Javier Manquillo, having averaged more key passes, crosses and long balls than them in their respective domestic leagues so far this term (WhoScored), and so would be a welcome addition by the Toon Army.