Burnley keeper James Trafford's two-word response to Newcastle United transfer links

With Martin Dubravka edging closer to the Newcastle United exit door, the Magpies are in the hunt for a new goalkeeper.

Why, I hear you ask? They already have five. But, the thing is, they’re about to lose their current No.1, even if that shirt is likely only temporary.

Dubravka has been outstanding, adding a totally different dynamic to Newcastle’s defensive unit. His confidence and quality on the ball has increased confidence levels in the four players in front of him, and meant the usual press on to Nick Pope, hasn’t brought the same results with Dubravka between the sticks.

But, knowing he is no longer the United No.1, with Pope due back again soon, Dubravka’s head has been turned by an offer of untold riches and first-team football in Saudi Arabia. At his age, who can blame him? I certainly don’t.

‘It’s all hypothetical’

Speaking about Dubravka’s situation, head coach Eddie Howe said: “The situation with Martin is, we would not want him to leave but of course you have to respect and understand the player’s wishes as well in this,”

“Martin is out-of-contract as well in the summer so that is a different dynamic to add into the mix. It’s all hypothetical.

“Martin is and has been fully committed, I think he’s been outstanding and a brilliant professional to work with. I’ve got a lot of respect for him and I think he’s done really well when you consider he didn’t play a lot of football and coming into the team. Fair to play him and how he’s handled that situation.”

What options do Newcastle have - and why look to Trafford?

Newcastle, of course, already have another four senior keepers on their books, even if Dubravka leaves for Al-Shabab in a January deal.

Pope is Howe’s first choice, with Greece No.1 Odysseas Vlachodimos a back-up, as well as former England international John Ruddy and Geordie Mark Gillespie in reserve.

But, Howe, having been forced into the deal, does not really seem keen to turn to his Greek keeper, despite an impressive show in pre-season and in the Carabao Cup earlier in the season. Gillespie is not a first-team keeper, Ruddy is at the twilight of his career, while Pope’s footballing ability leaves a lot to be desired.

And that’s where the interest in Trafford has developed. A footballing keeper, who is big, makes big saves and is as seasoned a 22-year-old as you’ll ever come across, with nearly 150 appearances already to his name.

NewcastleWorld reported last summer, the Magpies came close to a deal for the Burnley man, and it’s understood they’re again very interested in this player.

However, Cockermouth-raised Trafford has already been confronted with the prospect of a move to Newcastle - and his answer was far from dismissive.

When fellow player Sam Sherring responded to an Instagram post of him in England kit from back in June 2024, saying: “Come to Newcastle”, Trafford immediately responded: “My g.”

Now, it definitely isn’t a confirmation of his interest in any deal, but it was far from a knockback either.

It’s unclear whether a move will progress this window, but the summer is definitely one to watch.