Former Man Utd GK David De Gea keen on joining Newcastle

As per ESPN reports, the 33-year-old former Manchester United goalkeeper, David De Gea, has expressed interest in joining Newcastle United. This interest has arisen following news of Nick Pope potentially being unavailable for the next four months. A source informed ESPN that De Gea, who has been a free agent since leaving United at the end of the last season, would consider a contract offer from Newcastle if they decide to enlist him to cover for Pope’s absence.

De Gea, with a remarkable 12-year stint at Old Trafford, making 532 appearances across all competitions, departed the club when his contract expired last season. The manager, Erik ten Hag, showed no inclination to extend the contract of the Red Devils legend or retain him in any capacity, including playing time.

ESPN notes that De Gea has been consistently training and is prepared to accept an offer if it aligns with his career objectives at this later stage.

Nick Pope, formerly the Magpies’ first-choice goalkeeper until last Saturday, is set to undergo surgery for a dislocated shoulder injury sustained in the Premier League match against Manchester United last weekend. This injury is expected to sideline Pope for the next four to potentially five months, creating a significant void in the Magpies’ goal.

Pope’s injury occurred in the 83rd minute of the game, leading to his substitution in the 86th minute. Martin Dubravka, a long-time Newcastle goalkeeper, replaced Pope and is expected to continue starting games during Pope’s recovery or until the club reaches an agreement with De Gea or another goalkeeper to fill the void.

While Newcastle could sign De Gea immediately, the club is anticipated to evaluate its options in the coming days and weeks before making a final decision on a replacement for Nick Pope ahead of the January transfer window. In the interim, manager Eddie Howe will rely on the goalkeeper trio of Martin Dubravka, Loris Karius, and Mark Gillespie. The upcoming December fixtures against Everton, Tottenham, and Milan will provide challenges that the club aims to address in due course.