Loris Karius has already explained why he wants to join Newcastle United ahead of unveiling

Loris Karius is looking forward to a new challenge with Newcastle United after a nightmare spell at Liverpool.

The 29-year-old is set to join the Magpies as cover to No.1 Nick Pope after Karl Darlow picked up an ankle injury in training.

Karius was on Tyneside today (Thursday) to undergo his medical and put pen to paper on a short-term contract.

It will represent a much-needed fresh start for the 29-year-old, who leaves Merseyside after a difficult six years.

The German’s time at Liverpool was defined by one game with Karius making two errors in the Reds’ 3-1 Champions League final defeat to Real Madrid in 2018.

Subsequently, that was Karius’ last competitive appearance for Jurgen Klopp’s side after he was loaned to Besiktas and Union Berlin.

‘I’m ready, mentally and physically’

And ahead of joining United, Karius spoke in June about needing a “new challenge”, where he insisted he’s “ready”, both mentally and physically.”

“There were ups and downs,” Karius, speaking to Sky Germany, said about his time at Liverpool. “It’s part of the game, that’s football, but I’ve developed as a person.

“The level at which we worked every day, and the professionalism that everyone exemplifies, was unique. I’ve that I’ve never experienced it before – and that’s why we’ve celebrated a lot of successes there. I’ll take my determination, and this determination, with me to my next job.

“I’m free and I can make my own decisions. This is a new situation that I’m looking forward to.

“A new challenge is coming up, but that’s always a good thing. I’m ready, mentally and physically.”

Following Darlow’s injury, which is expected to keep him sidelined for a few months, Karius will join Pope and Mark Gillespie to form United’s senior goalkeeper pack.