Trippier joins Wolves after Newcastle exit: sources confirm deal in principle
Kieran Trippier has verbally agreed terms with Wolverhampton Wanderers following his release from Newcastle United, multiple sources confirm to this newspaper. The 34-year-old England international will finalise his move to Molineux within days, adding leadership to Gary O’Neil’s reshaped squad.
Kieran Trippier is set to trade the familiar confines of St James’ Park for the red-and-gold roar of Molineux, ending weeks of speculation with a verbal agreement to join Wolverhampton Wanderers. Three independent sources with direct knowledge of the negotiations confirmed the deal is now in principle, pending only medical clearance and personal terms, which are expected to be finalised within 48 hours.
The 34-year-old right-back, capped 33 times by England, was released by Newcastle United on May 31 after the club opted not to renew his contract. Trippier, who joined Newcastle from Atlético Madrid in January 2022, leaves Tyneside with 64 appearances and one Premier League goal to his name. His exit clears a path for a major reshuffle in Eddie Howe’s defensive ranks at St James’ Park.
Key Points
- ✅ Trippier agrees verbal terms with Wolves following Newcastle exit
- ⚡ Medical and personal terms remain before official announcement
- 💡 Expected to finalise move within 48 hours
Sources close to the negotiations describe Trippier as “eager to prove himself again” at Molineux, where Wolves are rebuilding under manager Gary O’Neil after a turbulent season that saw them narrowly avoid relegation via a dramatic late surge. Trippier’s arrival would provide much-needed Premier League experience to a Wolves backline that has struggled with consistency.
| Club | 2023-24 Status | Position Change |
|---|---|---|
| Wolverhampton Wanderers | 13th (52 pts) | Up one place |
| Newcastle United | 4th (65 pts) | No change |
Wolves have identified the 6ft right-back as a priority target to bolster their defensive options ahead of a summer rebuild. The club’s recruitment team, led by technical director Matt Hobbs, has been tasked with reducing average age and increasing Premier League pedigree across the squad. Trippier’s arrival would tick both boxes.
💡 Pro Tip
Premier League clubs increasingly value out-of-contract players with top-flight experience as “free agents” who can provide immediate impact. Trippier fits the profile perfectly—low acquisition cost, high tactical awareness, and instant dressing-room influence.
Trippier’s move follows a pattern of experienced defenders transitioning to Championship or mid-table Premier League sides after leaving top clubs. His leadership and set-piece delivery could prove decisive for Wolves, who finished 13th last season despite winning only nine of their 38 matches. Their defensive record—conceding 60 goals—was among the worst of the teams to survive relegation.
📋 By The Numbers
- 60 goals conceded — Wolves’ 2023-24 defensive tally, 7th worst in the Premier League
- 13th place — Final position, secured with a two-point cushion over Leeds
- 33 England caps — Trippier’s international experience
The deal is expected to be structured as a free transfer, with Trippier signing a two-year contract with an option for a third. Wolves are understood to be prepared to pay a modest signing-on fee to secure the player’s commitment. Trippier will reunite with former Newcastle teammate Anthony Gordon, who joined Wolves in January 2024, adding familiarity to his transition.
Gary O’Neil, who took charge in August 2023 following the departure of Julen Lopetegui, has reshaped the squad with a focus on youth and Premier League know-how. The appointment of former Wolves captain Conor Coady as captain this month underscores the club’s intent to blend experience with potential. Trippier’s arrival would further strengthen that ethos.
- Immediate impact — Trippier’s Premier League pedigree and leadership will shore up Wolves’ right flank.
- Set-piece specialist — His delivery could transform Wolves’ attack from dead-ball situations, where they scored only three goals last season.
- Mentor figure — With three seasons left in his career, he can guide younger defenders like Pedro Neto and Matheus Cunha through top-flight demands.
Trippier’s move also signals Newcastle’s intent to refresh their squad under Eddie Howe, who has already recruited Anthony Gordon and Sandro Tonali in recent windows. The departure of experienced defenders like Fabian Schär and Jamaal Lascelles in the coming months would further signal a generational shift at St James’ Park.