It has been a frustrating summer for Newcastle United as far as their pursuit of signing a notable goalkeeper is concerned. The Magpies had earlier lost the race to sign Willy Caballero to Chelsea, with the goalkeeper making a switch to Stamford Bridge on a free transfer. Rafael Benitez has already informed Tim Krul that he doesn’t have a future at St. James’ Park and the former Napoli boss is looking for an experienced shot-stopper.
Reports had surfaced last month that the Toon had put West Ham United’s goalkeeper Adrian in their radar as a prospective target for the summer transfer window. The Hammers have already signed English international Joe Hart on loan from Pep Guardiola’s outfit and thus, it goes without saying that Adrian might have to sit out on the bench on many outings this season.
It isn’t likely to be cherished by the 30-year-old and he might look for an outlet, and thus, it would only make sense if West Ham United sign a replacement as well.
However, the Magpies won’t not have the luxury of laying their hands on the former Betis man that easily. The Irons had sold last season’s no.1 goalkeeper Darren Randolph to Championship outfit Middlesbrough.
With Hart and Adrian being the two custodians on whom the East London club can trust the gloves, selling the Spaniard would really weaken their depth as far as the goalkeeping slot is concerned. Apparently, Slaven Bilic is eyeing Newcastle United’s goalkeeper Karl Darlow as a part of a swap deal.
Darlow played an instrumental role for Benitez’s side last season and was one of the key players in their run back to the top flight. The 26-year-old had registered 36 appearances across all competitions for the black and whites, and he managed 15 clean sheets to his name. However, the ex-Nottingham Forest star is likely to be offloaded this summer as his employers are looking for a more experience player between the sticks and want to keep Rob Elliot in their ranks.
Considering that goalkeepers generally reach their peak form later than the outfield players, Darlow has the requisite calibre to thrive and the age factor is also by his side. The swap deal, thus, is likely to be beneficial for all parties involved, for Adrian would be able to get game time on the pitch regularly and West Ham United would get a decent back-up goalkeeper who is good enough to challenge Hart for a place in the starting line-up.