Martin Dubravka’s Newcastle United future has turned into quite the saga this month.
It has looked for all the world that he would leave, with Dubravka receiving an offer from Al-Shabab.
A move to the Saudi Pro League has beckoned for the goalkeeper, who is now in the final six months of his Newcastle United contract.
It was even claimed that Dubravka’s move would be finalised after the Arsenal game. Newcastle United won that match, and Dubravka was very emotional at full-time.
However, Eddie Howe was always wanted to keep Dubravka, and stories began to emerge on Thursday that the 35-year-old could stay at St James’ Park.
Newcastle United are trying to convince the 35-year-old to stay, and could even hand him a new deal. However, Dubravka does not want a new contract.
Update on Martin Dubravka’s Newcastle United future
It has all become a bit messy, but the latest news coming out of Saudi Arabia may suggest that the noise is about to die down.
According to Ariyadhiah, Martin Dubravka’s move from Newcastle United to Al-Shabab is now off, with Eddie Howe opting to keep the Slovakian stopper at St James’ Park.
That is the same outlet that first reported that Dubravka had a deal to join Al-Shabab, while they also claimed that a transfer was merely waiting for official confirmation.
They have been very bullish about Dubravka joining Al-Shabab, but this represents a real 180.
Newcastle United could change their goalkeeper this weekend
While it now looks like Dubravka will stay at Newcastle United, that does not necessarily mean he will retain his place in the starting XI this weekend.
The Magpies face Bromley in the third round of the FA Cup, and Eddie Howe is predicted to make wholesale changes.
Given the fact that Dubravka has played seven games in a row in quick succession, it feels likely that he will be rested and replaced by Odysseas Vlachodimos. That is the case in our predicted Newcastle XI to face Bromley this weekend.
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