Why Everton's transfer interest in Kieran Tripper should concern Liverpool fans

Everton boss Sean Dyche has dismissed rumours linking the club with a move for Kieran Trippier.

Speculation arose on Thursday suggesting that Everton was eyeing the 33-year-old full-back as a potential solution to its ongoing right flank crisis. If Trippier leaves Tyneside this summer, a gap would open up in Newcastle's squad - forcing it to seek a replacement.

Liverpool's Joe Gomez could be that replacement. Newcastle was interested in signing the versatile defender earlier this summer and can always reignite that interest. Gomez is a center-back by trade but has often plays at full-back in the Premier League.

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Trippier, who has been a consistent figure for Newcastle in recent years, is reportedly seeking new opportunities elsewhere following a dip in form towards the end of last season, which could result in reduced playing time this term.

When quizzed about the possibility of Everton making a move for the seasoned player during his Thursday press conference, Dyche played down the rumors. He replied: "He's one of many names that have come up here. As if by magic when we haven't got a right-back!"

If Trippier stays at Newcastle this summer, Eddie Howe's need for a new full-back - or Gomez - won't be as desperate. That's good news for Liverpool boss Arne Slot, who is short of numbers at center-back. Virgil van Dijk is now 33, while Ibrahima Konate's injury record is questionable. Jarell Quansah, meanwhile, is still building his Premier League CV.