Tue 11 Jun 2024, 10:00 · Ash Harrison

Celtic emerge as contenders for signature of wantaway 35-year-old Newcastle man

Celtic emerge as contenders for signature of wantaway 35-year-old Newcastle man
Copied
Share Tweet

Newcastle United are locked in negotiations with Burnley over the transfer of 21-year-old goalkeeper James Trafford.

With Loris Karius leaving at the end of the month when his contract expires, a replacement was needed, however, it looks like Newcastle will also be looking to move Slovakia international Martin Dubravka off the books too.

Should James Trafford sign for Newcastle, Dubravka would likely be pushed down to third-choice stopper with Nick Pope remaining as number one.

Given how Dubravka reacted to Nick Pope's arrival and being dropped to second-choice, we can't see him taking another drop in the pecking order too well.

Advertisement
2023 martin dubravka newcastle united 864803382 1
Getty Images
Celtic are interested in Martin Dubravka

Martin Dubravka had a brief loan spell at Manchester United

After Nick Pope arrived at Newcastle, Dubravka spat his dummy out at being made second choice, so he moved to Manchester United on loan to be ... *checks notes* ... third choice ... wait, that can't be right?

Dubravka's season-long loan at Manchester Reds was cut short in January when he came to his senses and Dubravka remained at Newcastle last season where he played 30 times in the absence of Nick Pope who dislocated his shoulder. In those 30 games, Dubravka conceded 48 goals and kept only eight clean sheets.

Still, despite that horrendous form, Dubravka has several clubs interested in taking him off Newcastle's hands, one of which is Scottish Premier League champions, Celtic.

Advertisement

Celtic want Martin Dubravka to replace Joe Hart

The Daily Record reports that Celtic are on the look out for a new 'keeper following the retirement of former England number one, Joe Hart.

We doubt Dubravka's sale would bring in much money, maybe a couple of million at best, but clearing his £40,000-a-week off the wage bill certainly won't go unnoticed.

I've been a bit harsh to Dubravka here because of his recent form and the whole Manchester United thing, but in truth, he has been a fantastic goalkeeper for us over the years and we'll never forget his debut against Manchester United which was nothing short of phenomenal.

However, it's time to move on. Good luck wherever you end up, M-Dubz, even if you stick around at the Toon to shadow Mark Gillespie on the bench.