Newcastle United are on the verge of bidding farewell to veteran goalkeeper Martin Dubravka because the membership appears to be like to refine its squad throughout the January switch window.
The 35-year-old, who has served as a dependable backup to first-choice keeper Nick Pope, is ready to affix Saudi Arabian membership Al-Shabab.
In line with stories from Saudi outlet Asharq Al-Awsat, the switch has been agreed, with Dubravka anticipated to finish the transfer after Tuesday night time’s Carabao Cup semi-final first leg towards Arsenal. The deal, initially deliberate for earlier within the window, was delayed to permit the skilled shot-stopper to be out there for this vital match.
Dubravka’s departure will mark the tip of a memorable tenure at St. James’ Park. Since becoming a member of the Magpies from Sparta Prague in January 2018, initially on mortgage, the goalkeeper has been a key determine for the membership.
All through his time on the membership, Dubravka has made 130 appearances and earned reward for performances. This season, he performed in seven matches throughout all competitions, securing 5 clear sheets and offering invaluable expertise to the squad.
The transfer to Al-Shabab will give Dubravka the chance for extra common first-team motion, one thing which will have been restricted at Newcastle as a result of Pope’s agency maintain on the primary spot. For Newcastle, the deal permits the membership to recalibrate its squad and generate much-needed funds.
Miguel Almiron and Kieran Trippier additionally anticipated to depart Newcastle
Dubravka isn’t the one participant anticipated to depart Newcastle in January. As a part of their technique to adjust to the Revenue and Sustainability Guidelines, the membership is aiming to dump a number of gamers. These strict monetary rules restricted Newcastle’s spending in the summertime switch window, and to keep away from related restrictions, the membership is targeted on producing funds by participant gross sales.
Fan favorite, Miguel Almiron, is predicted to be bought to MLS facet Charlotte FC, who’ve been after him for fairly a while. Newest report counsel the membership have made a £5m bid for him.
Almiron has been a key contributor to Newcastle’s success, however with the membership in want of monetary flexibility, a transfer to the US seems imminent.
The Newcastle board reportedly additionally desires to eliminate Kieran Trippier, though supervisor Eddie Howe is alleged to be in disagreement with them as he nonetheless considers him an vital participant.
