The biggest piece of deadline day business to happen involving Newcastle saw Martin Dubravka join Manchester United.
The Slovakian has arrived at Old Trafford on loan, with the move eventually being finalised with just a few hours remaining in the transfer window.
Man United have paid an initial £2million to Newcastle for the deal. They will then pay a further £6million if they decide to sign him permanently. However, they will actually be obligated to sign him if he makes a certain number of Premier League appearances.
That will be the goal for Dubravka, who won’t want to just sit on the Old Trafford bench. He will want to compete with David De Gea, who has had a shaky start to the new season.
In contrast, he didn’t have much chance at Newcastle. Eddie Howe had brought his own man in, and Nick Pope has started exquisitiely.
It’s understandable why Dubravka wanted to leave, despite the ludicrous reaction from some Toon supporters on social media.
The 33-year-old should be applauded for his contributions to Newcastle, and will be remembered as a top quality goalkeeper on Tyneside.
Bruno and co wish Dubravka luck after he joins Manchester United
After the move, Dubravka sent a message on his official Instagram account reflecting on his Newcastle career, thanking fans for the support they have given him.
“It has been an honour and a privilege to represent this amazing city and this incredible club over the last four years,” he wrote.
Multiple current Toon players responded to the post, sending the goalkeeper a message of support after his deadline day move.
Paul Dummett wrote: “Been a pleasure. All the best Heco.”
Fabian Schar and Emil Krafth both wrote: “All the best bro.”
Dubravka then uploaded a second image to Instagram, expressing his excitement at joining Man United.
That post also inspired a response from a Newcastle player, with Bruno Guimaraes writing: “Good luck Dubrakinha.”
His move has got off to a good start, with Dubravka’s new club beating Leicester 1-0 on Thursday night. The Slovakia international watched the game from home, and will have seen De Gea keep a second clean sheet in a row.
With the option to buy available, it feels like this is truly the end of Dubravka’s Newcastle career. He was a wonderful player for the Magpies, and we wish him all the best for the future.
Thank you safe hands Martin!
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