Eddie Howe reveals wish to strike Newcastle United deal - set to speak to Paul Mitchell
Eddie Howe wants Newcastle United to offer Martin Dubravka a new contract in a bid to stop him joining Saudi Pro League side Al Shabab.
The Slovakian is understood to be on the verge of joining Al Shabab amid claims tonight’s 2-0 Carabao Cup semi-final first leg win at Arsenal would be his last appearance for the Magpies.
In Nick Pope’s absence, Dubravka has started the last seven matches, all of which have been victories. Of those seven games, five have ended in a clean sheet.
Pope is set to return from his knee injury later this month but Howe doesn’t want to lose Dubravka, who is out-of-contract at the end of the campaign. The United head coach revealed after the game at the Emirates he plans to speak to sporting director Paul Mitchell regarding Dubravka’s future.
“I know nothing, genuinely,” Howe said. “I’ve been head down into the game so I’m sure I’ll speak to Paul at some stage today."
When asked if there was a chance Dubravka could be offered a new contract, Howe replied: “That would be my wish.”
After the full-time whistle, an emotional Dubravka stood alone in front of the 6,000 travelling Geordies.
When asked if that was the 35-year-old saying goodbye, Howe said: “I’ve got nothing to add to that,” he said. “We’ve been preparing for this game with Martin. He’s playing very well at the moment and of course, I wouldn’t want to lose him.”