Eddie Howe believes it makes ‘no sense’ for Newcastle to sell back-up goalkeeper Martin Dubravka ‘right now’
Eddie Howe says it makes ‘no sense’ for Newcastle to sell goalkeeper Martin Dubravka while he is still in the team, but has not ruled out a move in January.
Mail Sport revealed last week that the club’s hierarchy will let the Slovakian decide his future next month, with an offer on the table from Saudi Arabia’s Al-Shabab.
However, the situation is complicated by a knee injury to number 1 Nick Pope, and he is not expected to return until the second half of January.
Dubravka, who turns 36 next month, has started the last three games and is set to play at least the next five, including the first leg of the Carabao Cup semi-final against Arsenal.
Howe was asked on Friday whether the club could approve a move in the current situation.
“We certainly don’t want to lose the goalkeeper who currently plays for us, that would not make sense,” said the head coach. “So no, that’s not a deal we would want to approve at this time.”
Eddie Howe (right) does not want Newcastle to approve the sale of Martin Dubravka (left).
Dubravka is currently playing in the absence of Nick Pope, who is currently out with a knee injury
Pope is not expected to be fit until the end of January, which complicates a possible transfer for Dubravka
If Dubravka were to leave when Pope is fit, would there be scope to bring in a replacement?
“Well, these are questions we need to find answers to,” Howe said. ‘As I said, the Martin situation is not clear-cut, let’s wait and see what happens in the coming weeks.
‘But he is certainly doing very well. I am very happy with his reintroduction to the team. I think he gave us composure and composure and made some really good saves. Let’s not forget the one he scored in the 1-0 against Ipswich, which was a big moment in the match.
“So I’m happy with how he’s playing. He is currently in goal for us and is doing great.’