Newcastle United goalkeeper Loris Karius has expressed his desire to remain on Tyneside amid his contract winding down to its conclusion.
This has been suggested by the reliable Newcastle journalist Craig Hope who has been speaking from Saudi Arabia on his latest YouTube video.
Karius made the move to St. James’ Park in September having become a free agent over the summer and was handed just a short-term deal.
And he is now playing into the final weeks of the deal which is set to expire at the end of the month, yet to start a game outside of Thursday’s friendly in Saudi.
Despite the lack of game time, Hope has suggested that, after speaking to Karius, the 29-year-old shot-stopper would actually be keen on staying put in the north east:
(4:00) “The man in the match and the guy we’ve just spoken to downstairs there who probably looks as if he’s won himself for an extended stay at Newcastle on the back of that if he hadn’t done already was Loris Karius.”
“Got a nice little chat with him there and I’m pleased for him, I am, because nearly two years approaching two years in February since he made his last competitive start so to come in here and play the way he did. I think mentally that will do him the absolute world of good.
“His deal does expire in January. He wants to stay and Eddie wants him to stay so I think we should probably see some movement on that.”
TIF Thoughts on Hope’s comments…
It has been a tricky few years for Karius who found himself searching for a new club over the summer with his downfall stemming from his Champions League final errors.
Should Karius be given a new deal?
Yes
No
However, it was apparent he impressed in the game against Al Hilal on Thursday with Jordan Cronin of NewcastleWorld rewarding the German’s display with a 9/10 rating:
“Made five saves in the first half, including two outstanding stops. Impressive debut, and one that could strengthen his case for a new contract,” Cronin added.
It would perhaps be difficult to suggest Karius has warranted an extended deal on the back of a game against Al Hilal, however, Eddie Howe will see the 29-year-old behind the scenes and know exactly what he brings to the squad.