Kieran Trippier jets back from New York holiday to seal exit as stat explains why Bayern Munich want shock transfer

KIERAN TRIPPIER has flown back from his holiday in New York as he closes in on his Newcastle exit.

The full-back, 33, emerged as a shock transfer target for Bayern Munich.

Kieran Trippier could be on his way to Bayern Munich this monthGetty

According to the Daily Mail, the German champions made an official approach to the Magpies on Saturday – the same day Trippier was due back from his trip away ahead of Monday’s return to training.

But that was understood to be rejected by the Toon, who are adamant their experienced defender will absolutely not leave on loan and he is not for sale unless Bayern’s offer is simply too good to refuse.

However, Trippier is said to be keen on the switch – which would see him link up with Harry Kane and Eric Dier again – and personal talks are underway.

Bayern have prioritised landing versatile PSG defender Nordi Mukiele as their top target.

However, if that move fails to come off, Trippier is the back-up option – although no deal to see Joshua Kimmich go the other way is expected.

And a very impressive stat proves the 46-cap England international still has plenty to offer.

Tripper has created a whopping 164 league chances since the start of last season.

Only Bruno Fernandes on 174 has carved out more openings across Europe’s big five leagues.

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Trippier joined Newcastle from Atletico Madrid in 2022 for £12million and has been such a key part of the Magpies’ rise since the Saudi takeover.

His current contract currently has him tied down until 2025 but Eddie Howe wants him to stay put at St James’ Park – despite his recent drop in form.

Newcastle do, though, have a long-term successor at right-back with Tino Livramento.

And with the club well aware of complying within Premier League profit and sustainability rules, they know that could come into play with Trippier.

Toon CEO Darren Eales said last week every player has a price and added: “It’s difficult to hypothesise but, if we’re offered £1bn for one of those players, then no one could argue against that making sense.

“At times it is necessary to trade your players.

“Whether that is because of the contract length of the player in question, the offer is too good to refuse, you need to reload in certain areas.

“But all of this could make sense to trade that player.

“It is counter-intuitive and part of the inherent system of PSR that there is an incentive to trade your players if you want to re-invest, by the nature of the boundaries.”

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