OPINION
The introduction of keeper Martin Dubravka has transformed Newcastle United into a different side in recent years, with the Magpies having found new defensive stability.
Dubravka has cemented his place at St James’ Park and alongside big defensive players such as Jamaal Lascelles and Fabian Schar, Newcastle kept 11 clean sheets last season – their best record since 2012 when they recorded 15 [Source: Premier League].
The only problem with your better players excelling for longer periods is that in a matter of time bigger clubs will no doubt come in and express their interest in poaching those talents away from you.
Paris Saint-Germain were reported by Kicker to be interested in the 30-year-old this summer should they sanction a move for Kevin Trapp to move to last seasons loan side Eintracht Frankfurt.
RMC Sport reported on Tuesday that the French giants had given the green light to that move, with the German expected to return to the Bundesliga on a permanent move next season – whilst mentioning Dubravka as a potential replacement once more.
The Slovakian international was ever-present in the Premier League last season and completed every minute in the top-flight under Rafael Benitez.
New boss Steve Bruce will no doubt want to keep ahold of the experienced stopper, but there is surely slight doubts with Paris Saint-Germain being able to offer both huge wages and Champions League football – two things Dubravka will find hard to achieve at Newcastle.
Dubravka was a key component of Benitez’ possession-based style last season, averaging 27.2 passes every game, with only 7.4 of those being long balls – proving he much preferred to keep the ball down and recycle fresh attacks for his side [WhoScored].
With the reported interest in Dubravka from the European giants, his future at Newcastle is surely at risk, with the proposal of moving to provide competition to Alphonse Areola surely too good to turn down.
