Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe makes his intentions clear amid reports linking Martin Dubravka to Manchester United

Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe has hinted that he does not want to lose Martin Dubravka as Manchester United continue to negotiate a deal for the goalkeeper.

Manchester United are determined to sign a new goalkeeper before the transfer window closes on September 1. Earlier this month, they signed even increased their budget to strengthen the region.

Athletic announced on Wednesday (August 24) that the Reds made an offer to sign Dubravka from Newcastle. Negotiations are said to be focused on taking the 33-year-old on loan for the season.

Providing an update on Dubravka’s immediate future, Howe revealed that Manchester United and Newcastle have been in contact about a potential transfer. However, the negotiations were not advanced enough for players to discuss personal terms, according to the Magpies boss. He told a Press Conference:

“I don’t think he is in talks with Manchester United. There has been contact between the clubs and those discussions will continue.”

Howe went on to admit that he would be very disappointed to lose Dubravka if the Reds agreed a deal. He admits that the decision about the goalkeeper’s future is not up to him. He say:

“In terms of the end result, I don’t want to lose any important players in the group so that will be a decision that is out of my hands.”

Manchester United and Newcastle are still negotiating a deal for Dubravka. Capabilities include a buy option worth £5m is also being discussedaccording to Fabrizio Romano.

How did Manchester United target Dubravka for Newcastle?

Dubravka joined the Magpies on an initial loan from Sparta Prague in January 2018. He went on to make the move permanent for £4m the following summer.

The Slovakia international has made 130 appearances in all competitions for the Tyneisde-based club to date. He played once a minute in the Premier League during his first two seasons with the team.

However, two foot injuries have limited his playing time in the last two campaigns. He played 26 league matches for the home team at St. James’ Park after missing the start of the season through injury.

Dubravka, however, has completely lost his place as Newcastle’s first-choice goalkeeper this season. Nick Pope’s arrival from Burnley earlier this summer cost him his place in the team.

In addition to Pope and Dubravka, Howe has Karl Darlow and Mark Gillespie as goalkeeping options. Thus, The Magpies can punish a move against the Slovaks.