Agent set for Newcastle talks as club make contact over Borussia Dortmund star - Report
Even with five games to go in the current season, the club is already going to great lengths to make sure we have our transfer business sorted as soon as possible for next season.
From right wing to centre back, there’s a number of key problem areas to address.
And if recent reports are to be believed, we’re casting our net wide to the continent to find our next goalkeeper, and have our eyes on one of Europe’s finest…
Dortmund stopper linked
According to Foot Mercato's Santi Aouna, Newcastle are showing interest in Borussia Dortmund goalkeeper Gregor Kobel.
It's claimed the 27-year-old is 'on the verge' of leaving the Bundesliga giants and is wanted by Chelsea and Newcastle, who have been in contact with his representatives over a potential move.
Kobel's team will be in London over the coming days to discuss talks further, in what could be yet another player we're competing with the Blues for this summer, just like Dean Huijsen.
It's looking like Dortmund have already anticipated Kobel's departure earlier this season, as they signed Ajax's Diant Ramaj back in the winter window.
The 27-year-old Swiss international has slowly cemented his status as a top shot stopper at both club and international level, with Yann Sommer's retirement from the National Team seeing Kobel become their new no.1.
Just last season, Kobel was instrumental in helping Borussia Dortmund reach the Champions League final: a run which included two clean sheets against us!
Trafford alternatives may be needed
For the longest time, it had seemed like James Trafford was destined to play under Eddie Howe next season, but this Kobel news may hint of a new direction, if true of course.
After a record-breaking season in net for Scott Parker's side, the Clarets may not be keen to see Trafford depart just yet, especially after promotion back to the Premier League.
And with the No.1 spot in the England National Team ready to be his, Trafford's value (and transfer fee) is only going to go upwards, which will be something Burnley will certainly recognise ahead of the summer.
With both Nick Pope and Martin Dubravka both well over 30, time is ticking for Howe and co. to find a young replacement ready to start for us, and Kobel may be an excellent choice if a deal for Trafford is no longer straightforward.
