OPINION
Newcastle United have been contacted by Benfica about a potential summer move concerning goalkeeper Tim Krul, according to a reliable journalist.
Gazzetta dello Sport contributor Tancredi Palmeri claimed on his personal Twitter account on Friday morning that the Portuguese champions have made an approach for the 29-year-old shot-stopper.
Newcastle have been contacted by Benfica for Krul
— Tancredi Palmeri (@tancredipalmeri) August 11, 2017
The Dutchman currently has one year remaining on his contract at St James’ Park.
Good move for Newcastle?
Newcastle boss Rafa Benitez was recently quoted in the Chronicle as stating that he has informed Krul to look for another club so he will be encouraged that Benfica are interested in signing the goalkeeper.
The Dutchman was sent on loan last season and he is not likely to feature at all for the Tyneside club with Benitez expected to opt with Rob Elliot as the number one choice.
Krul would no doubt be delighted that Benfica are looking to acquire his services as it will give him the opportunity to play Champions League football this season and also boost his chances of being selected for the Netherlands national team for next year’s World Cup in Russia.
The Magpies did not suffer in Krul’s absence last season as they stormed to automatic promotion from the Championship but given that the goalkeeper has featured in over 150 Premier League matches for the club, his experience in the dressing could be missed.
This Is Futbol rating: 6/10
Likely to happen?
Benfica will be looking to sign a goalkeeper as they saw first-choice Ederson move to Premier League side Manchester City this summer.
With Benitez publicly admitting that Krul is surplus to requirements at the club, the goalkeeper is likely to secure a move away from the newly-promoted Premier League side this summer.
Newcastle will be looking to receive a decent amount of money for the Dutchman and these funds could be used to help the club bring in some new faces before the transfer window closes.
This Is Futbol rating: 7/10