Connect with us

Soccer

Burnley close to agreement for Newcastle United goalkeeper

Martin Dúbravka is reportedly on the verge of completing a permanent move from Newcastle United to newly-promoted Burnley.

 Reports, including those from Sky Sports reporter Dharmesh Sheth, suggest talks between the two clubs are “progressiong well.”

The 36-year-old Slovakian international has emerged as Burnley’s primary target to bolster their goalkeeping department following the departure of James Trafford to Manchester City last month.

While Burnley have already brought in 21-year-old Max Weiss this summer, manager Scott Parker is keen to add a shot-stopper with proven Premier League experience as his side prepares for the rigours of top-flight football.

For Dúbravka, the move would offer a clear path to regular first-team football, a priority for the veteran keeper who has seen his opportunities at St. James’ Park diminish.

📲 Follow The Sporting News on WhatsApp

Despite signing a new contract with Newcastle earlier this year, his position in the pecking order has fallen significantly following the return to fitness of Nick Pope and, crucially, the recent loan arrival of Aaron Ramsdale from Southampton.

Dúbravka has not featured in Newcastle’s pre-season tour of Asia, with only a 45-minute appearance against Celtic to his name in friendly matches.

This absence strongly indicated that a move away from Tyneside was being actively pursued.

Having joined Newcastle initially on loan in 2018 before making the move permanent, Dúbravka has made 179 appearances for the Magpies, establishing himself as a fan favourite and the club’s number one for four seasons before Pope’s arrival.

His half-season loan spell at Manchester United during the 2022-23 campaign also added to his Premier League experience, albeit with limited game time.

From Newcastle’s perspective, the sale of Dúbravka would help trim a somewhat bloated goalkeeping department that currently includes Pope, Ramsdale, Odysseas Vlachodimos, John Ruddy, and Mark Gillespie.

While the fee for a player in the final year of his contract is unlikely to be substantial, it will free up wages and streamline the squad.

As Burnley continues to build a side capable of competing in the Premier League, the addition of Dúbravka would represent a shrewd piece of business, bringing valuable leadership and a safe pair of hands to Turf Moor.

An official announcement is expected shortly, as the final details of the deal are ironed out.

Burnley news and related links

Click to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Must See

More in Soccer