Former Sunderland forward Kevin Phillips believes the signing of Kieran Trippier for Newcastle could lead to a number of other big names joining Eddie Howe’s side.
Newcastle were subject to a big money takeover from the Saudi Public Investment Fund earlier this season, ending the reign of Mike Ashley at St James’ Park and have been linked with a host of players ever since.
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One of the most frequent names linked with a move to Tyneside is Manchester United midfielder Jesse Lingard. The 29-year-old has struggled for game time at Old Trafford and has spoken about a need for regular football ahead of next years World Cup.
Newcastle are not the only team linked with Lingard with David Moyes’ West Ham also reportedly interested in the player who spent the second half of last season with the Hammers.
However, ex-Sunderland man Phillips believes that Lingard would be wary of moving to the Premier League strugglers with the threat of relegation.
Speaking to Football Insider, Phillips said: “I think getting the first player through the door is crucial.
“Everyone knows they will be in a relegation battle this season. It’s just about convincing the big names to start the process off by staying in the division.
“If I was someone like Jesse Lingard, I would be a bit wary of going.”
Phillips went on to say that if Newcastle could bring Atletico Madrid full-back Trippier, it could open the floodgates to bring in more top players.
“However, if they could get Trippier through the door early in the transfer window that would show that Newcastle mean business. It could persuade others to make the leap too.
“They’ll all have their eyes on being part of the project over the next four to five years. That will be a big factor.”
Trippier would bring a wealth of Premier League experience after spells with Burnley and Tottenham before his move to La Liga.
The right-back also has 35 England caps and still regularly makes Gareth Southgate’s squads despite the national sides riches in that position.
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