Paul Merson was amazed to hear that Everton have been linked with a move for Newcastle United defender Kieran Trippier.
The Magpies full-back has handed in a transfer request at St James Park ahead of the 30 August deadline, according to the Telegraph, with the Toffees interested in acquiring him on a loan deal [David Ornstein].
Trippier has even gone as far to list his Northumberland home on the market [iNews], but it remains to be seen whether Sean Dyche’s side can strike a deal before the transfer window closes.
Reacting to the transfer link live via Sky Sports on Saturday (24 August, 12:12pm), Merson said: “It’s a great signing for Everton. It will be an unbelievable signing for Everton if they got Kieran Trippier.
“He is an international, plays for England, I am a big fan of his. I think he is a very, very good footballer. He can play on both sides and his set plays, you know. Everton are not going to open teams up for fun every week, so they have got to rely on scraps.
“When you have someone who can put the ball on a sixpence like he can, it can only help and Everton are very good at set pieces. He is a good signing.”
Everton to sign Kieran Trippier before August 30?
Merson is absolutely spot on. Trippier would be a great addition to Dyche’s squad for the 2024/25 campaign, whether it is on a permanent deal or a temporary one.
The Toffees currently have a rather obvious problem in the right-back position, with Ashley Young suspended following his red card against Brighton, and Seamus Coleman and Nathan Patterson on the sidelines.
While Roman Dixon has been brought through from the academy ranks, making his senior debut against Tottenham on Saturday 24 August, they need another experienced face to come through the door at Goodison Park.
At 33 years of age, Trippier could certainly be that player, having racked up nearly 200 appearances in the Premier League over the years, as well as winning 54 caps for England at international level.
Although he does have his own issues when it comes to injuries, the Toffees only have a handful of days left before the summer transfer window slams shut, so there is limited time to find an alternative signing.
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