Newcastle starts rebuild with Trippier; Villa adds Coutinho

NEWCASTLE, England — Newcastle began its first transfer window under Saudi ownership by signing fullback Kieran Trippier from Atletico Madrid on Friday, and Aston Villa brought Philippe Coutinho back to the Premier League on loan after he was unable to make an impact at Barcelona.

The acquisition of Trippier highlights the level of player Newcastle can attract now that it is one of the richest clubs in the world, though Barcelona’s purchase of Coutinho from Liverpool in January 2018 could serve as a cautionary tale about overspending.

Trippier, who started for England in the European Championship final in July, has swapped the Spanish champion for a team struggling against relegation in the Premier League in a move that is reportedly costing Newcastle $16.25 million US.

Newcastle is in next-to-last place in the league after winning just one of its 19 games so far. Its chances of escaping relegation could hinge on how successful its January transfer window proves.

The resources available to the club are significantly greater than its relegation rivals following Saudi Arabia’s sovereign wealth fund’s purchase of Newcastle in October.

Trippier returns to the Premier League 2 1/2 years after leaving Tottenham to join Atletico. He was previously at Burnley under manager Eddie Howe, who is currently in charge at Newcastle.

“I really enjoyed my time in Madrid, but when I became aware of interest from Newcastle, and having worked with Eddie Howe before, I knew this was where I wanted to be,” Trippier said.