Over the next 18-24 months, we’re likely going to see a dramatic number of our elder statesmen either retire, depart or be phased out of Eddie Howe’s starting 11.
The likes of Dan Burn, Nick Pope and Jacob Murphy are all north of 30-years-old, and it wouldn’t be a surprise to see each of them gradually moved out from the starting XI to make way for fresh faces and new signings.
However, squad depth demands still remain, and we’re still in a rather precarious financial situation where trying to find new players who offer what our current players can will cost us an absurd amount.
Such is the case for Kieran Trippier, as the defender faces an uncertain future on Tyneside based on his contract situation and ongoing interest from abroad…
Trippier still a wanted man
According to The Chronicle, French giants Monaco and a number of unnamed Saudi Pro League sides remain interested in signing Kieran Trippier.
The report states that Eddie Howe is keen to keep the veteran defender on Tyneside, leaving new sporting director Ross Wilson with a big decision to make; consider a January sale, allow him to leave next summer or negotiate a new one-year deal.
With Lewis Hall and Tino Livramento ready to seize for the starting full-back positions for years to come, the 35-year-old’s time as a starter purely depends on the fitness of Livramento.
Trippier’s current deal expires at the end of June next year. And at a reported £120,000 per week, he’s been amongst our highest earners since arriving from Atletico Madrid back in 2021.
That’s a figure that would seem like small change to both Monaco, who have the likes of Paul Pogba on their books, and those within the Saudi Pro League.
Monaco had previously courted Trippier last summer, where he also popped up on the Saudi Pro League radar, but the former England international opted to remain in the North East for this current season.
Big calls to make for Howe and Wilson on Trippier
Considering his age and wages, one option for the club is to cash in over the January transfer window whilst he’s still under contract and able to bring in a fee.
We’ve been in a similar situation for the last two years: in 2024, the prospect of selling Trippier to Bayern Munich reportedly fell through, though he struggled to regain form and fitness for the rest of that campaign. In 2025, Trippier was again retained, but this time proved pivotal to both our Carabao Cup win and eventual Champions League qualification.
Sporting director Ross Wilson is expected to oversee the matter, but Howe would no doubt want to keep one of his most-trusted players and one of the many vice-captains at the club.
The gaffer’s made it abundantly clear in the past just how much he values the first player to show faith in the Newcastle project, previously saying “Kieran is a very, very experienced player and very important for us.”
Acknowledging that the decision on Trippier’s future lies less within his remit however, Howe has commented “His contract length is something that an incoming sporting director will be on top of.”
💙 Follow Us on Facebook
We share updates, news, and helpful posts every day.
Click below to like & follow our page to stay connected!
Highest Paying Jobs in the UK 2026 (No Degree Required) – Full Hiring Guide
The UK job market in 2026 is creating strong opportunities for workers without university degrees. Due to labor shortages, rising wages, and demand across key industries, many roles now offer competitive salaries, stable contracts, and visa sponsorship options for qualified workers.
This guide focuses on real, in-demand UK jobs that pay well, require little or no formal education, and are suitable for both UK residents and international applicants.
1. HGV (Truck) Driver Jobs in the UK
Heavy Goods Vehicle (HGV) drivers remain among the highest-paid non-degree workers in the UK. Supermarkets, logistics firms, construction companies, and fuel suppliers continue to face driver shortages, pushing wages higher each year.
Salary Range
- £38,000 – £65,000 per year
- Overtime and night shifts can exceed £70,000
Requirements
- UK HGV Class 1 or Class 2 licence
- Driver CPC qualification
- No university degree required
Why This Job Pays Well
Long hours, responsibility, and supply chain importance make HGV driving one of the best-paid manual professions in the UK. Employers often cover training costs.
2. Construction Site Supervisor (Experience-Based)
Construction supervisors oversee daily site operations, safety compliance, and workforce coordination. Many professionals rise into this role through experience rather than formal education.
Salary Range
- £40,000 – £60,000 per year
Requirements
- Construction site experience
- CSCS or SSSTS certification
- No degree required
Construction jobs attract high advertising bids due to insurance, equipment, training, and recruitment demand.
3. Security Control Room Operator
Unlike basic security guard roles, control room operators monitor CCTV systems, coordinate emergency responses, and manage access control for large facilities, airports, and business centers.
Salary Range
- £35,000 – £50,000 per year
Requirements
- SIA licence
- Basic IT and communication skills
- No academic degree required
4. Warehouse Operations Manager (Promotion-Based)
Many warehouse managers start as pickers or supervisors and move up through performance. E-commerce growth has pushed logistics salaries significantly higher.
Salary Range
- £42,000 – £58,000 per year
Industries Hiring
- Amazon fulfilment centres
- Supermarket distribution hubs
- Import and export warehouses
5. Care Home Manager (NVQ Route)
Care home managers oversee elderly and assisted living facilities. This role follows vocational certification routes rather than university education.
Salary Range
- £45,000 – £65,000 per year
Why It Pays Well
An aging population and staff shortages have pushed salaries higher, especially in private care homes.
6. Roofing & Specialist Trades
Roofers, scaffolders, and specialist trade workers earn premium wages due to physical demand and skill shortages.
Salary Range
- £180 – £300 per day
- Annual income up to £70,000
7. Taxi & Private Hire Drivers (High-Demand Cities)
London, Manchester, Birmingham, and Leeds offer strong earning potential for licensed private hire drivers.
Salary Range
- £35,000 – £55,000 per year
Visa Sponsorship for UK Jobs
Some UK employers offer sponsorship under the Skilled Worker visa route. While not all jobs qualify, roles in logistics, healthcare support, construction, and technical operations may be eligible depending on employer approval.
How to Apply for High-Paying UK Jobs
- Apply directly on company career websites
- Register with UK recruitment agencies
- Obtain necessary licences before applying
- Prepare a UK-style CV
In 2026, high-paying jobs in the UK are no longer limited to university graduates. With the right skills, certifications, and experience, workers can secure stable, well-paid roles across logistics, construction, healthcare support, and security sectors.
For job seekers aiming to work in the UK or improve their income, focusing on short-term training and high-demand industries remains the smartest path.
