“Wouldn’t make sense” – Eddie Howe pours cold water over January transfer move for Newcastle ace

Manager Eddie Howe has dismissed the possibility of Newcastle United allowing goalkeeper Martin Dubravka to leave in the January transfer window. He believes such a move makes no sense, given the current circumstances.

There were rumours that the club hierarchy would let the Slovakian shot-stopper decide his future next month. An offer from Saudi Arabian side Al-Shabab remains on the table. He has also been linked with Celtic.

However, Newcastle’s plans have been complicated by a knee injury to first-choice keeper Nick Pope, who is not expected to return until the latter half of January.

Dubravka, who turns 36 next month, has stepped up in Pope’s absence, starting Newcastle’s last three matches. He will continue between the sticks for at least five more games, including a crucial Carabao Cup semi-final first leg against Arsenal.

Speaking on Friday, Howe was unequivocal when asked if Dubravka could be allowed to depart under the current circumstances.

“Certainly, we wouldn’t want to lose the goalkeeper that’s playing for us currently. That wouldn’t make sense,” said the Newcastle head coach (via the Daily Mail). “So, no, that isn’t a deal we would want to sanction currently.”

Pressed on whether a replacement could be sought should Dubravka leave when Pope regains fitness, Howe admitted the situation remains fluid. “Well, these are questions that we have to find answers to,” he said. “As I say, the Martin situation isn’t clear-cut. Let’s wait and see what happens in the next few weeks.

“But he’s certainly doing very well. I’ve been really pleased with his reintroduction to the team. I think he’s given us calmness, a composure, and he’s made a couple of really good saves. Let’s not forget the one he made at 1-0 against Ipswich, which was a big moment in the game.”

Newcastle must identify a new shot-stopper early

Despite the praise from Howe, Newcastle need to start making plans to sign a successor for the 36-year-old. He will likely be out in the summer if he does not leave in the winter window. Also, 32-year-old Nick Pope is not getting any younger.

The Magpies should be scouring for a new goalkeeper to bolster their ranks, and there are a few options they must consider.

OGC Nice goalkeeper Marcin Bulka has arguably been the best goalkeeper in France for the past two seasons. His goals prevented number stands at a healthy 2.67 while he is an imposing 6ft6ins figure in the box. He is also quite adept at saving penalties and is capable of using his feet.

Bulka boosts the Newcastle home-grown quota as he came through the Chelsea Cobham academy.

Also, Alvaro Valles, who was heads and shoulders above his peers in La Liga last term, should be considered after getting sidelined by Las Palmas for refusing to sign a new deal. He is a cheaper option.