Leicester City keen on Newcastle United star as contract decision looms

The stopper is said to be the subject of interest from the Magpies’ Carabao Cup quarter-final opponents.
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Leicester City are reportedly interested in a January deal for Newcastle United goalkeeper Martin Dubravka.

The Slovakian international returned to St James Park earlier this week after spending an underwhelming loan spell with Manchester United during the first four months of the Premier League season. The 33-year-old made just two appearances for the Red Devils, with both coming in the Carabao Cup as his temporary employers saw off Aston Villa and Burnley to reach the quarter-final of the competition.

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However, the form of regular number one David de Gea meant Dubravka failed to make a Premier League appearance during his time at Old Trafford and remained as an unused substitute in five of the Red Devils’ six Europa League group stage fixtures.

Newcastle manager Eddie Howe revealed Dubravka requested to bring a premature end to his loan spell and he returned to the United squad as an unused substitute as the Magpies battled to a goalless draw at league leaders Arsenal on Tuesday night.

“Martin’s situation is that he wanted to come back, and we were delighted to welcome him back,” Howe told reporters at the Emirates Stadium. “There was never an issue between me and Martin. He’s a top goalkeeper, and I’m delighted to welcome him back to the squad.”

Newcastle United goalkeeper Martin Dubravka. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)Newcastle United goalkeeper Martin Dubravka. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)
Newcastle United goalkeeper Martin Dubravka. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)

Howe expanded further as he spoke to BBC Newcastle, saying: “You need as many high-quality players as you can and in our position currently, any player we have either back from injury or Martin’s situation is like a new signing for us. Martin’s attitude has been very good, there’s never been any issue between us and hopefully he’ll play a big part.”

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Dubravka’s return to St James Park means Howe can call upon the services of four senior goalkeepers, with Nick Pope, Karl Darlow and Loris Karius all part of his squad at this point in time. A decision is awaited over the latter’s future as his short-term contract approaches its conclusion and The Guardian have suggested Leicester are keen to make a move for Dubravka during the January transfer window.