Newcastle United have set their sights on Lazio goalkeeper Thomas Strakosha, who will be available on a free transfer in the next window.
According to Corriere della Sera Roma, as relayed by Sport Witness, Thomas Strakosha has emerged as a target for Newcastle United in their search for a new goalkeeper. The Lazio stopper is being considered as he will be available on a free transfer after the current season ends.
Newcastle United may have managed to steer clear of the relegation battle as they sit comfortably with a nine-point cushion over 18th placed Watford. The credit for their revival goes to the board and Eddie Howe for having a successful January transfer window, spending over £90 million on important signings.
However, the spending spree in the winter window was just the beginning, as Newcastle United could be headed for a huge summer. They are expected to strengthen key areas of their squad, with many high-profile, quality incomings expected, while some of their current players are likely to make way.
One area of focus, in particular, is the goalkeeping spot, which the Magpies did not feel the need to strengthen in January. Howe kept faith in their three keepers, including first-choice star Martin Dubravka, who has been steady but not entirely convincing.
The Magpies would like to bring in an upgrade on the Slovak. Arsenal’s Bernd Leno is being considered, with the German set to enter the final year of his contract year at Arsenal in the summer. The former Bayer Leverkusen star is currently the second-choice goalkeeper at the Emirates behind Aaron Ramsdale.
Newcastle are also interested in Turkish international goalkeeper Ugurcan Cakir. Even though much of his football experience has been restrictive to the Turkish league and international stage, he is a growing star.
And the most recent name on Newcastle United’s shortlist is Thomas Strakosha, with the Lazio keeper emerging to be a cost-effective option. After playing his entire senior career in Italy, the Albanian will be a free agent after the season ends. He has made 200 appearances for the Rome side, who are looking to shake things up in their goalkeeping department.
An experience in the Premier League could be a tempting prospect for the 27-year-old, who could become Newcastle’s next No. 1. His availability on a free transfer helps with the consideration, as Newcastle could focus their finances on other more pressing positions.
The Magpies are also linked with Sam Johnstone, who is available on a free transfer, which indicates their unwillingness to spend big on a goalkeeper. Strakosha could be a good option considering his vast experience, although Leno is deemed to be in pole position for the role next season.
It is abundantly clear that Newcastle will buy a new goalkeeper. Leno, Cakir and now Strakosha are all in contention, with those players considered an upgrade over Dubravka on current form and long-term planning. But it remains to be seen who they decide to bring in.
