Goalkeeper Martin Dubravka has spoken out on his pending permanent move to Newcastle United, saying ‘it will definitely be sorted’ over the next few days.
The Slovakia international stopper, who stands at 6ft 3in [Transfermarkt], has spent the second half of the season on loan from Sparta Prague and impressed hugely at St. James’ Park, with a permanent deal always on the cards for the club.
Dubravka has now broken his silence on the issue, claiming that he believes he has a high chance of completing the move before May 31st, when his loan ends, but everything depends on the future of manager Rafa Benitez.
Speaking to Slovakian outlet Sport.sk, Dubravka said: “My loan lasts until May 31st. By then everything should be sorted. Everything should be based on whether or not the coach Rafael Benitez will stay or go.
“All possible transfers will begin after this at the club. This week will show whether Rafael Benitez will remain. And then we’ll see how my situation develops.
“The people from the club told me they were happy and would like me to stay. As I said, everything depends on Rafael Benitez. I firmly believe my chance is high. Over the next few days, it will definitely be sorted.”
OPINION
It will be reassuring for the Toon Army to hear Dubravka seemingly so certain that his move is close. His claims that everything depends on Benitez also look to be a non-issue now, with the Spaniard widely expected to stay on for at least one more season. That now opens the door for this deal to be completed, and we will surely get confirmation within the next couple of days. Both parties are obviously keen, and a fee agreement with Sparta Prague has seemingly been reached already. All that is left now is for the contract to be drawn up and signed, which is an exciting position for the club to be in. Dubravka has surprised many people with his brilliance for the Magpies this season, with the Slovakia international an unknown quantity in the UK before his arrival. A man-of-the-match display in a debut win over Manchester United set the tone, and he has not looked back since.
