Martin Dubravka has revealed that he is “close” to signing a new contract with Newcastle United.
The 30-year-old goalkeeper joined Newcastle on a permanent basis after an initial half-season loan last summer and has since become the undisputed number one at St James’ Park.
The Daily Mail reported in the summer that talks over a new deal with Dubravka had stalled and there was also widespread interest in him after an impressive season in the Premier League.
However it would now appear as though Newcastle have finally knuckled down and made a breakthrough in talks because Dubravka has confirmed a new deal for him is close.
“I’m happy here,” said Dubravka, as quoted by the Chronicle.
“Since I came here, people have treated me really well. I can say that I feel at home here.
“I’m glad that people think that I can stay here for the longer-term.
“It’s such a big honour for me.
“Hopefully, we can keep our players in the squad, our leaders, and we can build on this.
“We’re in talks. I’m close. That’s what I can say.”
OPINION
Dubvraka may have made an error that led to Sadio Mane scoring on Saturday – and has made a few other errors in 2019 – but the Slovakia goalkeeper is one of the best at his job outside the top-six in the Premier League and getting him tied down to a new deal is going to be a massive boost for the club. Dubravka has kept 16 clean sheets in 55 appearances since he joined Newcastle on an initial loan deal in January 2018. His impressive form led to Rafa Benitez signing him permanently the following summer and the change of leadership has not had an impact on his spot in the squad under Steve Bruce. According to stats by WhoScored, Dubravka has made 15 saves so far this season, which ranks him sixth in the Premier League among other goalkeepers. It’s important to remember that the Magpies have also had a tough start to their campaign by already playing against Arsenal, Tottenham and Liverpool.
