West Ham offered 'absolute steal' 17-goal forward as Newcastle United accelerate move for £18m star

Newcastle United are expecting a huge shakeup in the goalkeeping department this January as Saudi Pro League side Al Shabab edge closer to a move for experienced goalkeeper Martin Dubravka.

The Slovakian international is currently in the final months of his seven-year stay at St James’ Park and is free to begin discussions over personal terms with foreign clubs.

Dubravka said earlier this season: “Nobody has spoken to me about a contract extension yet, so I feel my phase is slowly coming to an end. I’m going to take it a bit more emotionally because seven years at one club is a long time.”

The 35-year-old has been in impressive form for Newcastle in the absence of Nick Pope with five clean sheets in his last seven competitive matches, with the most recent coming in a hard-fought 2-0 victory away to Arsenal in the Carabao Cup semi-final first leg - marking Newcastle’s first win at the Emirates since an Andy Carroll header back in 2010.

Dubravka impressed on his 171st appearance in Black and White but fuelled speculation of a premature January exit when he emotionally bid farewell to the travelling Newcastle supporters.

Italian transfer guru Fabrizio Romano suggested the end was near for Dubravka by claiming an agreement in principle had already been signed with the Middle East club over a January move. However, Newcastle World understands that the Magpies are keen to keep him until the end of the season, with Nick Pope currently out injured.

Pope’s injury problems, combined with a dip in form in the Premier League, particularly when playing it out from the back, have led to a growing understanding that Newcastle will be in the market for a long-term number one, either in January or more realistically in the summer window.

TalkSport understands former Arsenal goalkeeper and five-time England international Aaron Ramsdale is the club’s main target. The ex-Bournemouth man, who Eddie Howe signed from Sheffield United back in 2017, is currently at the Premier League’s bottom side Southampton but is likely to leave the Saints if they are relegated this year. Ramsdale moved to St Mary’s Stadium for £18m and is expected to be available for around a similar fee.

3AM Verdict: Newcastle United, despite having five first team goalkeepers at their disposal, are likely to face a huge decision over the number one spot at some stage in 2025.

Keeping hold of Martin Dubravka is paramount for the time being, amid Nick Pope’s injury, and the difficulty of getting deals done in January. Pope has been a revelation since signing for Newcastle, but has experienced a huge dip in form since his injury and in the long run may not have the qualities with the ball at his feet that are required for Newcastle to reach their required goals.

Meanwhile, Ramsdale, who has proven himself at the top level by making the PFA Team of the Season with Arsenal in 2022/23, excels in this area and at the age of 26 still has his best years ahead of him. This would potentially be a smart move from the Magpies in the summer, if he is available for the right price.

West Ham join race for prolific 17-goal forward

West Ham are the latest top European club to enter the race for highly-rated Lille striker Jonathan David.

GiveMeSport understands new Hammers boss Graham Potter is a huge admirer of the 24-year-old Canadian international and has made him a priority target in this window after his sensational start to this campaign.

David, who has been among Ligue 1’s top scorers for a number of years, has scored 17 across all competitions this term, and is approaching the final six months of his contract at Lille. The French side, despite David’s qualities, are now resigned to losing the highly-rated striker and have reportedly slashed their demands to £25m rather than losing him on a free at the end of the season.

3AM Verdict: What a coup this would be! Jonathan David has long been the subject of interest from various Premier League clubs such as Manchester United, Arsenal, Aston Villa and Newcastle United.

He is a proven goalscorer that can play all across the front line, is blessed with incredible pace, tremendous stamina and great movement in and around the penalty area. For West Ham picking him up for £25m would be an absolute steal, particularly at a time when the club are desperate for goals with both Michail Antonio and Jarrod Bowen missing from first team action.