One of Newcastle United’s goalkeeping targets is keeping his cards close to his chest ahead of the summer transfer window.
The Magpies are planning to sign a new goalkeeper ahead of the 2024/25 season, with Loris Karius set to leave St James’ Park. He could also be followed by Martin Dubravka, who is at risk of being sold.
That would leave Newcastle United with just Nick Pope and Mark Gillespie, meaning Eddie Howe is eager to bring in reinforcements.
Major names like Aaron Ramsdale and Giorgi Mamardashvili have been linked, but the Magpies may have altered their approach.
It has been suggested that Newcastle might favour an out-and-out backup, rather than someone who will directly challenge Pope. That is why a move for James Trafford is considered likely, while veterans like Asmir Begovic have also been linked.
The 36-year-old is due to become a free agent this summer, with his QPR contract set to expire.
He has been mentioned as a possible target for Newcastle United, and has spoke to SportSynergy about his immediate future.
“I am currently looking at options, talking to obviously QPR and see what happens there, see what happens in the next few weeks, it’s still pretty early in the transfer window,” he said.
“Nothing has been decided yet. I am keeping myself fit.
“I really enjoyed last year, the fact that I played so many games. In the second half of the season, for us, the team became together really well. Let’s see if we can keep this group of players together, have another run at next year. If not, see what else is out there and take it from there.”
Begovic’s comments come after he was actually at St James’ Park on Monday.
The former Stoke City stopper was in attendance for the England vs Bosnia And Herzegovina game, working as a pundit for Channel Four alongside Joe Cole and Jill Scott.
Begovic played 63 times for Bosnia during his international career, and watched on as the Three Lions won 3-0 on Tyneside.
Despite rumours of a move to Newcastle United, it would be a surprise to see Begovic back at St James’ Park next season after his visit on Monday.
It sounds like he is keen to continue playing for QPR, where he made 45 Championship appearances last season.
And if he does decide to move away from Loftus Road, it will surely be to a club where he is going to play regularly. That is not going to happen at Newcastle United, where Begovic would be an obvious understudy to Pope.
There is even a chance he would be seen as Karius’ replacement, with the third-choice keeper set to leave when his contract expires.
