According to the Chronicle, Slovakia international goalkeeper Martin Dúbravka is ‘keen’ to join Newcastle this month and they claim that the Sparta Prague stopper could even sign on loan before our FA Cup trip to Chelsea on Sunday.
The Daily Mail reported over the weekend that we were in talks with the Czech Champions over a potential loan move with a view to a permanent deal and the Chronicle have now backed up those suggestions – also claiming he’s ‘keen’ to make the move to Tyneside.
Here’s a snippet from the Chronicle, who state that he could even arrive before Sunday’s FA Cup trip to Stamford Bridge:
“We understand that Benitez will make progress on transfers this week and is hopeful again on Sparta Prague’s Slovakia goalkeeper Martin Dúbravka, who could sign before the Chelsea game on loan, after further talks.
“The player is keen to join Newcastle, where he will battle against Karl Darlow and Rob Elliot for number one status.”
It was reported by Sky Sports last week that we had a loan offer rejected for the 29-year-old Slovakian, however it seems we may have more joy if it includes a view to a permanent deal. After all, why would they loan out their number one goalkeeper?
Dúbravka stands 6ft 3′ tall and has impressed in his short time with Sparta Prague. We know little about him and trust Rafa’s judgement, but he certainly seems a low budget alternative to previous targets of Benitez’s (Reina, Caballero, Adrian, Areola etc.).
Goal scorers not keepers is what we need
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