Newcastle United player reveals transfer offers ‘from abroad and in England’

Martin Dubravka has revealed he had offers to play abroad and at other teams in England before joining Manchester United on loan.

The Slovakian asked to leave Newcastle United in the summer following Nick Pope’s arrival and the request was reluctantly accepted by head coach Eddie Howe.

Dubravka decided to become back-up goalkeeper to David de Gea at Old Trafford, despite concrete interest from elsewhere.

“I had a couple of offers as well from abroad, and here in England in as well, which I considered,” the 33-year-old MUFCTV. But, obviously when I had the chance to join Manchester United, it was quite simple for me.

“I wanted to join and want to be part of the process and part of this club. So I’m here now. We are very professional, we take it very seriously, and are trying to be ready to perform on the pitch.

“I’m trying to help David (De Gea) to feel ready, but, at the same time, create a very good environment so he feels he has support when he needs it.

“Even you say it, the goalkeepers’ group is very tight. We work together almost every morning, more than with the players, so we have to stick together and have a good relationship together.”

Dubravka waited three months before making his first appearance for Erik ten Hag’s side, which ended in a 4-2 victory over Aston Villa in the third round of the Carabao Cup.

Newcastle have a recall option in January, and Howe recently revealed the door remained open for Dubravka. However, speaking after that Villa win, Dubravka insisted he was happy at Man United, despite his lack of game time.

“I came here to enjoy that match because it’s not often you have a chance to play,” Dubravka said. “Obviously, I came here to challenge but I’m enjoying every minute.

“I’ve played against Man United so many times here (at Old Trafford) but now I represent this club. I enjoy every moment because it’s not that often.

“I enjoy working with him (de Gea). He’s a great lad. I came here to push and challenge, of course, but I respect David as a person. I’m glad we’ve created a good mood around the training ground with Tom (Heaton) and the other guys. I enjoy every minute with them. It’s good to be here.”

Dubravka is under contract at Newcastle until 2025, though Man United have the option to sign Dubravka permanently at the end of the campaign.