Goalkeeper Martin Dubravka was left out of Newcastle United's matchday squad for their clash with Wolves on Sunday afternoon amid ongoing links connecting him with a move to Manchester United.
United, who are closing in on the signing of Brazilian international Antony, want to add a back-up goalkeeper to their ranks ahead of the transfer window slamming shut on Thursday evening. Dean Henderson has left Old Trafford on loan this summer, joining Nottingham Forest, meaning Tom Heaton is David de Gea's only competitor for the No.1 spot.
However, the Reds are determined to add more competition to the goalkeeping department before the window closes and have been strongly linked with Dubravka over the past week or so. The 33-year-old was on United's radar as recently as January but rejected a deadline day loan move to Old Trafford.
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But with Newcastle having added England international Nick Pope to their ranks this summer, the Slovakian has fallen to number two in the pecking order. He had been named on the bench in each of the Magpies' opening three Premier League fixtures this term but was notable absentee when the team news was confirmed at Molineux.
Karl Darlow, who started Newcastle's 2-1 Carabao Cup win over Tranmere Rovers in midweek, was named on the bench instead of Dubravka, fuelling speculation that a move to Old Trafford could be edging closer for the latter. On Friday, while conducting his pre-match press conference, Newcastle boss Eddie Howe confirmed that contact had been made between the two clubs - but made it clear that he does not want to lose the goalkeeper.
Howe said: "I don't think he's in talks with Manchester United. There has been contact between the clubs but that will be something that will continue to happen, as in the discussions, but in terms of a final outcome, I'm very reluctant to lose any important players.
"So, it's a decision that is out of my hands really."
Dubravka is under contract at St James' Park until the summer 2025 after penning a six-year deal back in 2019. He made 26 appearances in the Premier League last season, recording eight clean sheets.
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