Newcastle United have an interesting decision to make in January.
While Financial Fair Play issues are believed to remain on the table for Newcastle heading into the New Year sales, there are a number of positions that could be strengthened.
Naturally, midfield is believed to be a priority following Sandro Tonali’s ban from football until August. Kalvin Phillips continues to be linked on that front.
A new forward, meanwhile, is understood to be of interest too.
Then there’s the goalkeeper. With Nick Pope injured for a reasonably long time, names are being linked. With three key positions listed, it remains unclear how far the club can stretch their transfer of wage budgets.
Indeed, Hugo Lloris was touted as a target over the course of the weekend to cover for Pope, while David de Gea has also been mentioned.
Now, sections of the Spanish media are trying to push a move for the latter.
David de Gea to Newcastle: Spanish media pushing transfer
Spanish publication AS tell Newcastle they need the former Manchester United goalkeeper.
They say De Gea is “necessary” at St James’ Park, partly because back-up stopper Martin Dubravka is (in their view) deemed only good enough for a substitute role at Newcastle.
David de Gea to Newcastle: Transfer move could become more urgent (Opinion)
Dubravka’s performance at Tottenham on Sunday was a major worry.
Though he has previously proven at least capable at Premier League level, the manner of his performance has been criticised, making the goalkeeper situation slightly more pressing for Eddie Howe.
With that in mind, De Gea at least makes a certain amount of sense. Proven in the Premier League and having boasted the tenth-best save percentage in the division last season (71.7%, via FBREF), he’s not without his quality.
He may not be perfect, as moments of his latter days at Old Trafford showed. Still, it’s not if Pope has been absolutely at his best all season, albeit he has starred recently.
It may not have been in the plan but Dubravka’s performances might have forced Newcastle’s hand…
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