Newcastle United narrow goalkeeper search down to two amid Franck Kessie blow

Newcastle United are preparing for the final straight as they look to guarantee Premier League safety.

Last Thursday’s late Everton defeat was a setback for the Magpies as they look to secure their stop in the top flight for another year.

In truth, Newcastle are relatively safe, but fans will certainly feel more comfortable once their side have - ideally - secured a couple more wins, taking them to 37 points and beyond.

For now, though, it’s time for the international break, and that’s the perfect cue to take a look at the latest Newcastle transfer rumours.

Goalkeeper pursuit latest

Newcastle are being heavily linked with a move for a goalkeeper ahead of this summer, as they look to add competition for Martin Dubravka.

The Magpies have a couple of options, with the Daily Mail claiming Arsenal keeper Bernd Leno is an option.

Meanwhile, transfer expert Fabrizio Romano is claiming Newcastle are focusing on Manchester United stopped Dean Henderson, who is likely to be on the move this summer.

Kessie blow

Over the last week, it has looked as though Newcastle might miss out on midfield star Franck Kessie, who is set to leave AC Milan on a free transfer this summer.

And that does indeed look to be true, with Gianluca Di Marzio now following up reports in Spain that Barcelona have agreed a deal.

Kessie is free to agree a pre-contract agreement, and the latest reports suggest he has agreed a deal to sign for Barca this summer.

That means Newcastle are very likely to miss out on this one.