Newcastle United goalkeeper Martin Dubravka’s move to the Saudi Arabian Pro League could be about to take a big step forward with a key appointment imminent at Al-Shabab.
As reported on Saturday night, the Slovakian shot-stopper could be set to play his last game for the Magpies in tonight’s Carabao Cup tie at Arsenal before completing a move to Saudi Arabia. United have stayed tight-lipped on his future, but with the 35-year-old out of contract in the summer, and Nick Pope expected to reclaim his first-team place once he recovers from his knee injury, they are unlikely to stand in Dubravka’s way.
He has performed well when deputising for Pope over the last six games, conceding just two goals as Eddie Howe’s found top form over the Christmas fixtures. However, with Newcastle looking at new goalkeeper options, it appears as though his time at St James’ could soon be at an end.
One significant move which underlines Al-Shabab’s interest is the expected appointment of former Juventus and Lazio midfield star Pavel Nedved as a director of the club. The Czech Republic legend is set to join the Saudi side’s hierarchy, and has long admired Dubravka.
He was said to be behind Juventus’ interest in a potential move for the United keeper back in 2019, having watched him star for Sparta Prague in his native Czechia. No move materialised as Newcastle rebuffed interest, but it appears that Nedved may be about to get his man.
If Dubravka does move to Al-Shabab he will join the likes of Daniel Podence, Yannick Carrasco and Giacomo Bonaventura at the Saudi club. United have been heavily linked with a return for Burnley’s James Trafford, while VfL Wolfsburg keeper Kamil Grabara is also said to be on their radar.
Speaking about Dubravka’s future before Saturday’s game with Tottenham, Howe said: “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. 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.”
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