Eddie Howe speaks out on Newcastle futures of Anthony Gordon, Kieran Trippier and Bruno Guimaraes
Big names have been linked with big moves.
Eddie Howe is keen for Anthony Gordon, Kieran Trippier and Bruno Guimaraes to remain at Newcastle, but admits outgoings are possible due to Financial Fair Play.
Gordon has been touted as a Liverpool target, Guimaraes eyed up by Manchester City and Trippier has been in talks over a move to Saudi Arabia.
Howe has admitted that the Magpies are dealing with a Financial Fair Play situation which means some players are likely to move on, but says they will ‘fight tooth and nail’ to keep hold of their key men.
On Trippier’s future, despite the Saudi links, Howe said: ‘I see him as a huge part of the team and the squad going forward but there’ll always be – while we’re in the moment of financial fair play still affecting the club – there’ll always be the possibility that anyone could leave.
‘So I won’t talk about individual players but naturally, with incomings there will be outgoings as well.
‘What I mean by that, I don’t mean literally everyone has a “For Sale” sign on their head. We are still in a position where Financial Fair Play will affect our decision making. No, we want to keep our best players, and we will fight tooth and nail to do that.
‘That doesn’t mean there won’t be outgoings of certain players, because there has to be from our side. I don’t think Kieran is openly looking to leave. He has been very good in training this week and came back with an ambition to fight for his place, like every player does when he comes back for pre-season, fully committed.’
Guimarares reassured fans that he is happy at the club and is looking forward to building a legacy in the famous black and white shirt.
‘I don’t get involved with anything with my agent. I know nothing about it,’ he said of transfer talk. ‘I’m focused on Newcastle. I’m very happy, the gaffer has given me a big responsibility to be in the leadership group. I want to help this guy. Since I’ve been here, he has developed my game. I have to deliver something special for them.
‘I want to put my name in club history. Nothing has changed. I want to win some trophies. I said i wanted to play Champions League and everyone said I was crazy. We have worked so far – this is still my dream.’
The 26-year-old is back with the club after playing for Brazil in the Copa America over the summer and Howe says his return has boosted his teammates.
‘When he came back, everyone was lifted. He’s got those qualities,’ said the manager.
‘I want to echo what Bruno says. We’re desperate for success. He brings those special qualities that make us better.’
Newcastle certainly don’t want to lose Gordon, who was extremely impressive for them last season, and Howe sounds confident the winger will stay.
‘His head is where Bruno’s is,’ he said of the England forward. ‘He’s with Newcastle. No distractions. He’s been really impressive.’
Newcastle have two more friendlies to play before the start of the Premier League season, taking on Girona on Friday and then Brest the following day.’His head is where Bruno’s is,’ he said of the England forward. ‘He’s with Newcastle. No distractions. He’s been really impressive.’
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