In the latest edition of our ‘Keep or Sell survey’, Newcastle United fans sent a clear message when it came to the futures of Karl Darlow, Martin Dubravka, Mark Gillespie and Loris Karius
Newcastle United are facing a reshuffle in their goalkeeping department ahead of the start of the new season. Nick Pope has established himself as the undisputed number one, but the identity of his backup and a potential cup goalkeeper is yet to be determined.
Martin Dubravka filled the role at the end of last season following his return from a loan spell at Manchester United. The Slovakia international lost his starting spot following Pope’s arrival and insists he is not ‘desperate’ to leave, but the opportunity to be number one elsewhere may prove tempting for the 34-year-old.
Karl Darlow looks set to be on his way out, with numerous reports indicating he is the subject of interest from a host of Championship sides. Bournemouth have also been linked to the recent Hull City loanee, with a price tag of £5 million said to have been placed on the Newcastle shot-stopper.
The club have triggered an option to extend Mark Gillespie’s contract, and it remains to be seen whether Loris Karius will accept an extension to his own deal. The former Liverpool goalkeeper’s only appearance for the club came in the Carabao Cup final defeat to Manchester United in February.
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In the latest edition of our ‘Keep or Sell’ survey, the Toon Army were asked about the futures of Newcastle’s goalkeeping alternatives to Pope. While the decisions on Darlow and Karius may have already been made, supporters were clear on who they would like to see remain on Tyneside.
With more than 40,000 votes cast, almost 72% of fans want to see Dubravka remain with Newcastle for the new season. The fanbase is almost equally divided on Karius’ fate, with just shy of 48% of supporter wishing to see last season’s free signing continue with the club.
Darlow’s sale could give the Magpies greater freedom to bolster their squad elsewhere, and more than 75% of participating fans would like to see the 32-year-old sold this summer. Gillespie has not been the subject of transfer interest, but the results produced a similar outcome with just 28% of supporters wishing to see the former academy prospect stay with the club
