Newcastle Untied are interested in signing goalkeeper Martin Dubravka from Sparta Prague, according to the Daily Mail.
The newspaper claims that the Magpies have failed in their pursuit of Paris Saint-Germain’s Kevin Trapp and have turned their attention to the 28-year-old.
It is understood that Rafael Benitez is keen on signing a new shot-stopper in January to become his number one option at St James’ Park, with the goalkeeper position currently an issue for the manager.
The report details that Newcastle are considering Dubravka and Benitez is hopefully of reaching an agreement for him before the weekend.
The eight-time capped Slovakia international has impressed with his performances for his country and Sparta Prague in the past 12 months..
Good move for Newcastle?
Newcastle need to sign a new goalkeeper in January as there are concerns over the qualities of both Rob Elliot and Karl Darlow.
The current options have been rotated this season and signing a replacement to cement the number one position would be a smart move.
Dubravka is an experienced goalkeeper that is currently impressing in the Czech league and has seven clean sheets in 15 appearances across all competitions.
He would be an upgrade on the current options in the Newcastle squad, but he has never played in English football before and could be a slight risk.
This Is Futbol rating: 7/10
Likely to happen?
Newcastle’s search for a goalkeeper is showing no signs of stopping and sooner or later they should land a transfer target.
Dubravka is the latest name to be mentioned and Benitez wants to complete a deal by the weekend.
Premier League football should be enough to attract a lot over overseas players, but Sparta Prague only signed Dubravka in the summer and he has become an important player for them this season.
This Is Futbol rating: 5/10