Everton would end their goalkeeping dilemma by bringing in Newcastle goalkeeper Tim Krul with his St. James’ Park future in doubt.
Krul, 29, is currently on loan with Dutch outfit AZ Alkmaar as he looks to overcome a long-term knee injury, which has seen him fail to play for the Toon since October 2015.
Here, This Is Futbol analyses three reasons why Ronald Koeman’s fellow countryman would bolster the Toffees chances of finishing in the top six of the Premier League.
Current Toffees goalkeepers
Joel Robles and Maarten Stekelenburg have been nothing more than unconvincing this season. Stekelenburg got his Everton career off to a flyer, but has since failed to feature regularly after suffering a similar injury to Krul’s knee problem. It has seen error-strewn stopper Robles come in for the Dutchman, but has shown signs of inconsistency and the ability to produce a howler on occasion – none more apparent in the 4-2 win over Leicester that saw the lofty stopper concede two soft goals. Bringing in Krul would see him instantly assume the position as the Toffees’ number one between the sticks, offering more quality and reliability in stopping the ball from hitting the back of the net.
Toon future in doubt?
The Newcastle academy product has just 12 months left on his current contract with Rafa Benitez’s men, with it remaining unclear if the goalkeeper will be given a chance in the Toon’s first team following their promotion to the Premier League. Benitez currently has an abundance of goalkeepers available to him in Matz Sels, Karl Darlow and Rob Elliot while Freddie Woodman is on loan with Kilmarnock. If first-team football is not guaranteed next season for Krul, then he should look to leave and Everton would be the perfect fit for the Toon’s longest-standing player. A cut-price deal then, could prove to be desirable instead of signing the likes of Joe Hart, who would require a transfer fee.
Premier League experience
With 42 top-flight clean sheets and a huge 157 appearances in England’s top division, Krul brings with him a wealth of experience and know how in keeping the Premier League’s best at bay. The former Falkirk and Carlisle loanee is known for his sublime shot-stopping abilities, and is now looking to be back to his best following his loan with Alkmaar. If Koeman does opt to move for Krul, he will be bringing in a player that could hold the key to breaking the Premier League’s top six stronghold next term.