A lot of positives will be taken from Newcastle’s start to the 2023-24 season, as Eddie Howe looks to continue the progression made from the previous campaign. However, injuries have been an underlying concern throughout the season to this point, as the club have an ever-growing list of first-team players that are unavailable.
Another setback was handed to the club in their recent 1-0 win over Manchester United at St. James’ Park, as Nick Pope was forced off with a significant injury that will keep the England international out of action for up to five months.
But, will the Magpies need to strengthen the position in order to rank among the favourites with Casinority Polska to finish in a Champions League spot this term?
Pope’s Injury Woes
Pope has been a standout player since joining Newcastle from Burnley in the summer of 2022, and he has been the clear number one choice for the club throughout his career at St. James Park.
However, Howe has revealed that the Magpies may be without the goalkeeper for the remainder of the season after he suffered a suspected dislocated shoulder when making a save against Man United over the weekend. Newcastle have a ready-made replacement for the England international, with Martin Dubravka an able deputy. However, it is likely to be a position that the club may look to strengthen over the winter given how important the position is to Newcastle’s excellent defensive record.
The Magpies aren’t expected to have a big purse to play with in January, but which goalkeepers could be among the front-runners that Howe may turn to?
David De Gea
David De Gea is still without a club after being released by Manchester United following the 2022-23 season. A move for the Spanish goalkeeper could be one of the more straightforward options for the Magpies, as they are free to communicate with the player’s representatives and no transfer fee will be required.
The goalkeeper enjoyed a hugely successful stay in the Premier League with Man United, winning the Premier League and FA Cup across a 12-year stay at Old Trafford. De Gea’s experience in the Premier League could be a huge positive for the Magpies, and despite criticism last season, he still picked up the Golden Glove award.
Aaron Ramsdale
A good move for all parties involved may be a bid for Aaron Ramsdale. The Englishman has seen his gametime limited following the arrival of David Raya at the Emirates, and the goalkeeper needs regular minutes if he is to book his spot in Gareth Southgate’s EURO 2024 squad.
The Gunners appear willing to allow Ramsdale a short-term move away from the club, and a move to Newcastle appears to make the most sense. Ramsdale would be a regular starter at St. James’ Park in the absence of Pope, and could play a key role in helping the club end their long wait for major silverware. However, Newcastle may need to pay a significant loan fee in order to get the deal over the line.
