Tim Krul had been linked with an emotional Newcastle United return.
Tim Krul is unlikely to rejoin Newcastle United this summer amid speculation about a possible St James’ Park reunion.
The Magpies have been linked with the Dutchman on a free transfer ahead of the Champions League campaign. UEFA rules state at least four players in a 25-man squad must have been developed from the club’s academy.
Krul - albeit born and raised in the Netherlands - joined Newcastle in 2005 as a 17-year-old. The goalkeeper announced himself to the Toon faithful with an unforgettable debut performance against Palermo in the UEFA Cup.
He went on to make 184 appearances for United before leaving following relegation in 2016. Despite being Dutch, signing Krul would allow Newcastle to comply with the UEFA ruling for next season.
For every club-trained player the Magpies omit, they will lose one place in the 25-man squad. In practice, if Newcastle register just one homegrown star in their ranks, they would only be able to name 22 players for the Champions League group stages.
Tim Krul to Newcastle United unlikely
However, NewcastleWorld understands a move for Krul - who will be released by Luton Town on June 30 - is unlikely. The 37-year-old has received no concrete offer and recently sold his house in the North East.
Rumours circulated two years ago about Krul making a Toon return before the 2023-24 Champions League campaign. Sources close to the goalie suggest he would be open to an offer but does not expect the call.
Another former Newcastle United goalkeeper?
A more plausible option could be Newcastle signing former academy product Fraser Forster. The Daily Mail reported earlier this week that he might be one to watch as Eddie Howe aims to loophole the UEFA rules.
Forster has Premier League experience as recently as last season when he answered Ange Postecoglou’s call amid an injury crisis.
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Tim Krul honest on Newcastle United exit
Krul did not want to begin a public feud with former Newcastle manager Rafa Benitez when opening up about his hasty exit. He said six years ago: “I do not want to talk about that (Rafa Benitez telling him he needed to leave) anymore.
“They were twelve fantastic years at Newcastle. I had survived sixteen managers and if there is one trainer who prefers to set up his own Spanish goalkeeper…
“To be honest, I’m glad that I also made the switch to other clubs, because that’s how I found pleasure at Norwich. We have a fantastic team, with a mix between young and experience.
“I have confidence in my body again. Football is crazy, is not it? For twelve years you are in one club and suddenly you have three, four clubs in two years behind your name. But I am now happy in Norwich.”
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