Newcastle discuss two new targets with James Trafford move unlikely - Report

It looks like Newcastle United will be back in the market for a new goalkeeper in 2026.

Recruiting a new stopper this month appears unlikely, with full-back cover and a young midfielder thought to be priorities. However, it remains a position we need to address in the medium to long term.

With that in mind, it's interesting to see two goalkeepers currently based in Spain and Germany who are thought to be on the club's radar heading into the new year...

Two overseas stoppers discussed

According to The Mail's Craig Hope, Newcastle United have discussed potential moves for Real Sociedad’s Alex Remiro and Borussia Dortmund’s Gregor Kobel as we prepare to sign a new goalkeeper this summer.

It's not clear if either will be pursued at this stage, but Hope reveals that both names have featured in recruitment meetings now a third attempt to sign James Trafford looks increasingly unlikely.

Writing in his latest Confidential Column, he states: 'Newcastle are re-assessing their goalkeeping situation ahead of the summer and names discussed (but not currently being pursued) include Real Sociedad’s Alex Remiro, 30, and Dortmund’s Gregor Kobel, 28.'

Kobel is Switzerland's No 1 and would bring plenty of top level experience, having played Champions League football with Dortmund, while Remiro is a 6ft 3' Spanish international who has played every minute so far this season for La Liga side Real Sociedad.

Big changes coming this summer?

It feels like this could be a summer of change when it comes to Newcastle's goalkeeping department.

Nick Pope remains trusted by Howe, it seems, but his inability to play out with his feet is a problem and he's had his fair share of injuries over the past three seasons.

Aaron Ramsdale also appears unlikely to stay beyond his loan, with Newcastle not currently expected to pursue a permanent deal once the former Arsenal stopper returns to Southampton.

Pope is a solid shot stopper and quick off his line, but his lack of ball playing skills causes nervousness. As for Ramsdale, he may be good with his feet, but he doesn't dominate his box, stays on his line and has let in a few this season that a top goalkeeper would not.

Hopefully a ball-playing goalkeeper with a strong all round game can be recruited, with a quality alternative to Trafford needed should the England talent no longer be an option.