“I wouldn’t want to lose him” – Eddie Howe admits Newcastle are selling player against his wishes

However, manager Eddie Howe seems hesitant to approve the move, raising doubts over the veteran goalie’s future at the club even though an agreement is apparently in place for him to join Saudi Arabian team Al-Shabab. After the pivotal semi-final match, the 35-year-old Dubravka was anticipated to leave for Al-Shabab, but he has been a dependable backup to first-choice keeper Nick Pope. According to reports, the agreement was postponed earlier in the transfer window in order to guarantee the Slovakian international’s availability for this crucial match.

It seemed as though Dubravka’s tenure at St. James’ Park was coming to an end when, after the game, he waved to the Newcastle supporters as they yelled his name. The goalie’s departure is far from finalized, though, according to manager Eddie Howe’s hints. Howe first declined to comment on the goodbye gesture in an interview with The Gazette following the game, but he later acknowledged that he wanted to keep Dubravka with the team. “Martin and I have been getting ready for this game. Naturally, I wouldn’t want to lose him right now because he’s playing so well,” Howe remarked.

The Newcastle manager said that talks over the goalkeeper’s future would be held with Paul Mitchell, the director of football: “I know nothing, genuinely.” I’ve been immersed in the game, so I’m confident I’ll talk to Paul today. Howe also expressed his desire for Dubravka to sign a new deal in addition to staying for the remainder of the season, saying, “That would be my wish.”

The Newcastle board and Eddie Howe disagree about player departures.

Newcastle’s alleged readiness to let Dubravka go is a result of the team’s attempts to abide by the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability Rules. Due to their restricted buying capacity in recent windows, the Magpies have been forced to offload players, often against the manager’s desires.

There are more players whose future at Newcastle is in doubt besides Dubravka. The board is apparently considering the departure of Kieran Trippier, another important player under Howe. Though he sees Trippier as an essential member of his team, Howe is reportedly once again at odds with the hierarchy. Despite reports that Dubravka’s transfer to Al-Shabab is imminent, Eddie Howe’s insistence on keeping the goalie could yet put a stop to the deal. Given Newcastle’s several battles this season, Howe’s desire for squad continuity might conflict with the club’s financial situation.

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