Kieran Trippier joins Wolves on free transfer after Newcastle exit as Rob Edwards lands major summer signing

Wolverhampton Wanderers have completed the signing of Kieran Trippier on a free transfer following the defender’s departure from Newcastle United.

The experienced full-back has signed a two-year contract at Molineux and becomes one of Wolves’ most significant acquisitions of the summer as the club prepares for a promotion push following relegation from the Premier League.

Wolves land experienced leader

Trippier arrives with an impressive résumé built across English and European football.

The 35-year-old began his career at Manchester City before helping Burnley earn promotion to the Premier League. He later established himself as one of England’s top full-backs during spells with Tottenham Hotspur and Atletico Madrid before joining Newcastle in January 2022.

During his four years at St James’ Park, Trippier played a key role in Newcastle’s resurgence, helping transform the club from relegation candidates into Champions League contenders.

Now, the 54-cap England international is set to bring that experience and leadership to Wolves as they target an immediate return to the top flight.

Edwards delighted to secure priority target

Wolves boss Rob Edwards admitted Trippier was one of the club’s top priorities and believes the defender’s mentality will be invaluable during a demanding Championship campaign.

“I’m so happy to bring him here,” Edwards said.

“When we met, it was evident that he really wants to come to Wolves.

“We know what we’ve lacked this year, and we know what we need next year – experience, leadership, resilient characters and strong characters. That’s what we’re going to need in abundance, and Tripps ticks every box.

“From quality to experience to leadership and know-how, he also has a real hunger. He wants to help us get promoted again.”

Edwards also revealed Trippier had opportunities elsewhere before choosing Wolves.

“He did have good options elsewhere, so for us to be able to get it over the line is a real coup. It shows what a big club we are and the direction we’re trying to take.”

Wolves hierarchy underline promotion ambition

Wolves executives believe Trippier’s arrival sends a strong message about the club’s ambitions for the upcoming season.

Executive chairman Nathan Shi praised both the player’s quality and winning mentality.

“Throughout his career, Kieran has performed at the very highest level, so we are delighted he has chosen Wolves for the next chapter of his journey,” Shi said.

“He is a player with incredible quality, his leadership attributes are second to none, and he possesses an innate will to win.

“We know the challenge ahead of us in the Championship, but Kieran’s signing shows just how ambitious we want to be.”

‘Number one target’ arrives early

Technical director Matt Jackson revealed Trippier had been Wolves’ primary defensive target throughout the early stages of the transfer window.

“We’re really pleased to have brought Kieran to Wolves,” Jackson said.

“He was very much the number one target for us and managing to bring him here early in the window was vitally important.

“It’s testimony to everybody at the football club that someone who has enjoyed the career Kieran has had sees Wolves as an exciting project.”

What happens next?

Trippier is expected to join Wolves immediately for the start of pre-season preparations and could be handed a significant leadership role within Edwards’ squad.

With promotion firmly the objective, Wolves hope the defender’s experience in the Premier League, Champions League and international football can provide the platform for a successful return to England’s top division.