Karl Darlow has barely played for Newcastle United over the past 12 months, and now the stars appear to be aligning for a January exit.
That is because Loris Karius has now signed a deal to keep him at St James’ Park. The German stopper agreed a short-term contract back in September that was due to expire this month. But now he has agreed an extension, and will continue to be a Newcastle player for the rest of the season.
The decision now means that the Magpies have five first-team goalkeepers at the club right now. Nick Pope is the undisputed first choice, while Martin Dubravka is going to provide backup in the second half of the season after his Manchester United loan deal was terminated.
That leaves Eddie Howe with three players competing for the honour of being Newcastle’s third-choice stopper.
It isn’t going to go to Mark Gillespie, who wasn’t even selected for the 25-man Premier League squad at the start of the season. And news of Karius’ extension means that it is almost certainly going to be him ahead of Darlow.
Leaving Newcastle is best for Karl Darlow’s career
The 32-year-old has been linked with a move away from St James’ Park, and that now seems incredibly likely. It has been reported by the Daily Mail that Darlow will be allowed to leave on loan or permanently, with the former Forest man keen to go and play first-team football.
One of the caveats stopping him from leaving was Karius’ future, but that has now been resolved. Howe has strong options in goal, meaning Darlow can now be allowed to leave.
While he is reportedly happy on Tyneside, a move away would be best for his career. He has barely played since the change of manager, making just two competitive appearances since Howe replaced Steve Bruce.
One of those came in Howe’s first game, where Darlow was criticised for his performance in a 3-3 draw with Brentford. He immediately lost his place in the side after that, replaced by the returning Dubravka.
He slid further down the pecking order in the summer after Pope’s arrival, with Darlow’s only minutes coming in the Carabao Cup win over Tranmere Rovers back in August.
At 32, Darlow should be a first-team regular. And he is certainly good enough. He has always been reliable in a Toon shirt, and really seized his opportunity during the lockdown season when Dubravka was injured. His form nearly earned him an England callup. However, he was harshly snubbed by manager Gareth Southgate.
But whoever signs Darlow will be getting an excellent goalkeeper. A move to the Championship feels likely, where he should immediately become one of the best stoppers in the division.
Now that Karius’ future on Tyneside is certain, the door is wide open for Darlow to depart. He will be remembered fondly for his performances in the North East, but needs to take this opportunity to start afresh somewhere else.
Receive a digest of our best Newcastle content each week direct to your mailbox
