Newcastle United’s top star is moving closer to leaving Newcastle, and teams in Saudi Arabia want him.
Newcastle United may do business in the Middle East again after selling Allan Saint-Maximin to a Saudi club last year.
Selling Saint-Maximin was crucial for Newcastle United in 2023, allowing the Magpies to sign Tino Livramento. He has been terrific, and Toon authorities replaced ASM with Harvey Barnes. And, while the England international is not as deceptive, he is unquestionably more effective.
Newcastle might once again strike a deal with a Saudi club after nearly moving Miguel Almiron to Al-Shabab in January.
There was an agreement in place for the Paraguayan to depart, but he preferred to stay in St James Park. His future remains uncertain as the summer transfer window approaches, as does that of another of the Magpies’ longest-serving players.
Another Newcastle United player connected with transfer to Saudi Arabia.
Newcastle United clearly needs to offload some players this summer, with Almiron and Callum Wilson both interested in leaving the club.
However, according to a fresh iNews story, Amanda Staveley and her team are considering selling another player.
According to iNews, Martin Dubravka might be released by the Magpies this summer. They claim he is ‘ching towards the departure door’, with Saudi teams keen in signing him.
Newcastle struggled with Martin Dubravka in goal.
Dubravka’s current contract with Newcastle expires in 2025, so this summer is the moment to cash in – unless they intend to offer him a new contract.
However, considering his age, 35, and his struggles since joining the squad this season, this seems improbable. Rafa Benitez’s £4 million acquisition has been Newcastle’s number one since Nick Pope had a shoulder injury in December, and his presence has significantly hampered the Magpies’ defence.
Dubravka has had a difficult few months, but there have been some highlights. He was outstanding in the FA Cup victory against Blackburn Rovers, and he also pleased Jurgen Klopp during Newcastle’s January loss to Liverpool.
Newcastle are trying to find a replacement
Newcastle have been hunting for a successor for Dubravka as he struggles. It was recently rumored that the team hopes to hire a new goalkeeper in the summer, and iNews reports that the club has been looking for an option.
The one name that keeps coming up is Giorgi Mamardashvili, Valencia’s goalie. He is tremendously well regarded and would be a significant boost over Dubravka. Given his skills, the 23-year-old would battle Pope for a spot in the starting XI.
