Newcastle United are set to part ways with veteran goalkeeper Martin Dubravka as the club look to improve their squad in the January transfer window.
The 35-year-old, who has served as a reliable backup to first-choice goalkeeper Nick Pope, will join Saudi Arabian club Al-Shabab.
According to reports from Asharq Al-Awsat Saudi outletthe transfer has been agreed, with Dubravka expected to complete the move after Tuesday night’s Carabao Cup semi-final first leg against Arsenal. The deal, originally planned for the start of the window, was delayed to allow the experienced shot-stopper to be available for this important game.
Dubravka’s departure will mark the end of a memorable tenure at St. James. Since joining the Magpies from Sparta Prague in January 2018, initially on loan, the goalkeeper has been a key figure for the club.
Throughout his time at the club, Dubravka has made 130 appearances and earned plaudits for his performances. This season, he has played seven games in all competitions, securing five clean sheets and bringing valuable experience to the squad.
The move to Al-Shabab will give Dubravka the opportunity for more regular first-team action, something that may have been limited at Newcastle due to Pope’s firm grip in the first place. For Newcastle, the deal allows the club to recalibrate their squad and generate much-needed funds.
Miguel Almiron and Kieran Trippier were also expected to leave Newcastle
Dubravka is not the only player expected to leave Newcastle in January. As part of its strategy to comply with Profitability and Sustainability Standards, the club intends to offload several players. These strict financial regulations limited Newcastle’s spending in the summer transfer window, and to avoid similar restrictions, the club is focusing on generating funds through the sale of players.
Fan favorite Miguel Almiron is expected to be sold to MLS side Charlotte FC. that they have been chasing him for a long time. The latest report suggests the club have made a £5m bid for him.
Almiron has been a key contributor to Newcastle’s success, but with the club in need of financial flexibility, a move to the United States appears imminent.
However, the Newcastle board also want to get rid of Kieran Trippier Manager Eddie Howe is said to be at odds with them as he still considers him an important player.
