Martin Dubravka makes contract demand to Eddie Howe and Newcastle United that has nothing to do with money

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Martin Dubravka knows exactly what he wants in order to stay put at Newcastle United.

This time last week, it seemed as though Martin Dubravka’s move to Saudi was imminent.

Dubravka waved goodbye to fans after starring in Newcastle United’s 2-0 win over Arsenal in the Carabao Cup semi-final. That seemed to be confirmation that he was headed for the exit.

However, Newcastle U-turned on their Dubravka deal and decided that the 35-year-old should stay put at St James’ Park.

Nick Pope has been out with an injury and Martin Dubravka has stepped up as Newcastle’s first-choice keeper in his absence. Newcastle have since strung together an eight-game winning streak that they will hope to continue when Wolves visit St James’ Park on Wednesday evening.

Newcastle fans chanted for Dubravka to stay during the FA Cup win over Bromley, and Eddie Howe has always been in favour of keeping hold of the veteran goalkeeper.

Newcastle United in talks with Martin Dubravka over new contract

Dubravka’s current deal expires in the summer, so after deciding he should stay beyond January, Newcastle have entered talks over an extension.

In an attempt to extend his stay, Newcastle have offered Dubravka a pay rise that matches the wages offered to him by Saudi Arabian clubs.

However, one of Dubravka’s main contract demands has nothing to do with money.

According to The Athletic, Dubravka wants assurances that he will be given a chance to compete with Nick Pope for a starting spot.

Eddie Howe faces an incredibly difficult decision when Pope does return to full fitness. There has been very little reason for Dubravka to be dropped back to the bench.

Newcastle United still want to sign new goalkeeper

Before deciding to keep Dubravka, Newcastle accelerated interest in James Trafford having previously tried to sign him in the summer.

Newcastle will not sign Trafford in January with Dubravka set to stay, but their interest could be reignited in the summer.

READ MORE: What Eddie Howe has told Newcastle United chiefs to do as Martin Dubravka update emerges

There have also been reports that Newcastle want to sign Aaron Ramsdale with Southampton facing relegation.

Whether Newcastle look to offload Dubravka in the summer or simply add to their goalkeeping department is yet to be seen.