Newcastle United make transfer U-turn after almost agreeing deal for 50-capped international

Many believed the Slovak had played his last game in the 2-0 win over Arsenal. Pre-match reports from the Middle East claimed Dubravka had all but agreed a move to Saudi Pro League club Al-Shabab.

And at the full-time whistle, a 6,000-strong Toon away end serenaded the 35-year-old after he earned his fifth clean sheet in seven appearances. Eddie Howe dismissed suggestions this was a farewell gesture following the Arsenal win.

“I’ve got nothing to add on that,” he said when asked about Dubravka’s send-off. “With Martin, we’ve been preparing for this game, and we’ve had a lot of games in quick succession, so I’ve not spoken to anybody about that.

NewcastleWorld: Essential is our weekly newsletter, delivering the city’s best bits to you inbox - sign up here

“He’s playing very, very well, and certainly from my side, I wouldn’t want to lose him at all. But I genuinely know nothing. I’ve been head down, into the game. I’m sure I’ll speak to Paul (Mitchell, sporting director) at some stage.”

The Daily Mail now report that Newcastle are in talks to keep Dubravka beyond the January window. Nick Pope remains sidelined, although he is expected to return from a knee injury soon.

Dubravka’s form is the key reason why Howe wants to keep a goalkeeper who, until December, would have been deemed surplus to requirements. Newcastle have little financial incentive to offload the shot-stopper given any move to Al-Shabab would be for a free transfer.

Howe and sporting director Paul Mitchell are thought to be understanding of Dubravka’s situation. Fans have begun questioning whether the goalie should reclaim the No.1 spot permanently, with Newcastle winning every game since his return.