According to Sky Sports’ Keith Downie, Karl Darlow has been told he’s still “got a future at the club” – raising serious doubts over Martin Dubravka’s position following the arrival of Nick Pope.
It had been reported that Pope would battle it out with the Slovakian for the number one spot, with Darlow tipped to join Freddie Woodman in sealing a permanent move to the Championship following strong links with Middlesbrough.
However, Downie has now suggested that the former Nottingham Forrest shot-stopper will remain at the club, meaning a “big question mark” hangs over Dubravka.
Sky’s North-East correspondent has also confirmed our interest in Leeds star Raphinha, but believes the Brazilian may be setting his sights a little higher than St James’ Park this summer after interest from Barcelona.
Here’s what he told Give Me Sport when asked about the goalkeeping situation on Tyneside, followed by his comments on Raphinha:
Downie on Darlow and Dubravka:
“My understanding is that Darlow has been told he’s got a future at the club, so that leaves a big question mark over Dubravka.
“There was a little bit of talk over him leaving in January, but it didn’t materialise at the time.”
Downie on Raphinha:
“I think he’s definitely a player they’re interested in, but I think the best way of putting this is I think he’s probably setting his sights a little bit higher, with all due respect to Newcastle.
“I think Barcelona have made it pretty clear that they’re interested in him; I think that’s the sort of move he’d be up for.”
