Newcastle United set to sanction January deal - on two conditions as personal terms 'agreed' claim
Eddie Howe has again refused rule out Martin Dubravka leaving Newcastle United before the end of January.
Dubravka is wanted by Saudi Pro League side Al Shabab with sources in the Middle East claiming the 35-year-old has agreed personal terms.
The Magpies don’t want to let Dubravka go currently and are unlikely to sanction a deal whilst Nick Pope is sidelined. The Slovakian has started the last five matches, equalling in five wins, four clean sheets and just one goal conceded. He has also been regularly praised for his distribution.
But if Pope is to return before the window closes, Howe has suggested a decision will be left to the player, whose situation is complicated by him being out of contract at the end of the campaign.
Howe told NewcastleWorld: “The situation with Martin is, we would not want him to leave but of course you have to respect and understand the player’s wishes as well in this. It’s not as clear-cut as everyone would necessarily have you think.
“Martin is out-of-contract as well in the summer so that is a different dynamic to add into the mix. It’s all hypothetical.
“Martin is and has been fully committed, I think he’s been outstanding and a brilliant professional to work with. I’ve got a lot of respect for him and I think he’s done really well when you consider he didn’t play a lot of football and coming into the team.
“Fair to play him and how he’s handled that situation.”
Howe added:” Martin has been excellent for us. In every respect of his game he has looked supremely confident which is never easy for someone who hasn’t played for a period of time.
“His distribution of the ball has been of a high level, he has made important saves when needed he has definitely contributed to the way the team has played. But Nick is a fabulous keeper with his unique skillset. It is great to have to high level goalkeepers at the same club.”