Newcastle United are in talks with Czech top-flight club Sparta Prague about signing their goalkeeper Martin Dubravka, according to the Daily Mail.
The newspaper claims that that Magpies are in discussions over a loan deal during the January transfer window for the 29-year-old.
It is understood that talks are ongoing as Sparta want the Premier League side to commit to a permanent buy at the end of a loan move at St James’ Park.
Rafael Benitez’s search for a new number one goalkeeper has been widely speculated about and the North East club are trying to get a deal for the Slovakia international over the line.
The goalkeeper spot has become a problem area for Newcastle this campaign and they have conceded 31 goals already in the Premier League.
Good move for Newcastle?
Dubravka would be a decent signing given his experience and an upgrade on the current Newcastle options.
Both Karl Darlow and Rob Elliot are underwhelming as Premier League shot-stoppers, which us why bolstering that position is imperative.
Dubravka has eight international caps for Slovakia and is currently performing for second-placed Sparta in the Czech league.
He has experience in both the Champions League and Europa League before, which would make him a senior figure if he switched to the Premier League.
This Is Futbol rating: 7/10
Likely to happen?
Newcastle are holding talks for Dubravka and it seems they are in a good position to secure his signature.
They have had to pursue loan moves in the New Year given the uncertainty over a potential takeover bid and the only thing that could scupper a move is Sparta’s desire to agree a summer deal.
This Is Futbol rating: 7/10