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Eddie Howe admits Martin Dubravka’s future at Newcastle United “isn’t clear-cut” amid talk of a potential transfer to Saudi Arabia in January.
Sources in the Middle East have claimed Dubravka has agreed to join Al Shabab. While Howe said “that’s news to me”, he didn’t ruled out the possibility of the Slovakian leaving.
“I have been aware of the rumours and talk about that deal but I don’t think it has got to that point,” said Howe.
Martin Dubravka of Newcastle in action during the Carabao Cup Quarter Final match between Newcastle United and Brentford at St James' Park on December 18, 2024 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)Martin Dubravka of Newcastle in action during the Carabao Cup Quarter Final match between Newcastle United and Brentford at St James' Park on December 18, 2024 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)
Martin Dubravka of Newcastle in action during the Carabao Cup Quarter Final match between Newcastle United and Brentford at St James' Park on December 18, 2024 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Dubrvaka is out of contract at the end of the season and viewed as back-up to Nick Pope. However, with the England man injured, the 35-year-old has started the last three matches and will start the Boxing Day clash against Aston Villa.
“Certainly we wouldn’t want to lose a goalkeeper playing for us currently, that wouldn’t make sense,” said Howe. “So no, that isn’t a deal we would want to sanction currently.”
The goalkeeping department is well-stocked with Odysseas Vlachodomis, John Ruddy and Mark Gillespie, though Howe may consider signing a replacement in the event of a Dubravka exit.
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Howe added: “These are questions we have to find answers to. As I say, the Martin situation isn’t clear-cut so let’s wait and see what happens in the next few weeks.
“But he’s certainly doing very well, I’ve been pleased with his re-introduction into the team, I think he’s given us a calmness and composure and he’s made a couple of really good saves, let’s not forget his save at 1-0 against Ipswich, it was a big moment in the game.
“Delighted with how he is playing and yeah, he’s involved for us at the minute and is doing a great job.”
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