‘80% completed’ – Newcastle close in on new deal, leaving two signings ‘unlikely’

Newcastle United appear to be closing in on a contract extension for veteran goalkeeper John Ruddy, a move that could significantly alter their summer transfer plans.

The club confirmed last week that discussions were ongoing with both Ruddy and striker Callum Wilson regarding potential new deals, though the latest reports suggest their situations are developing differently.

While negotiations with Wilson over an incentivized contract remain unresolved, progress is reportedly being made in talks with Ruddy.

According to The Athletic’s Chris Waugh, the 37-year-old shot-stopper is now closer to extending his stay at St. James’ Park, a decision that would likely end Newcastle’s interest in other goalkeeping options.

The Magpies had previously considered moves for experienced free agents Fraser Forster and Tim Krul, both of whom have previous connections to the club.

Their homegrown status made them attractive targets to help fulfill UEFA squad regulations, but with Ruddy now expected to stay, neither former Newcastle player is likely to return. Freddie Woodman, another name linked with a potential move, also appears to be off the radar if Ruddy puts pen to paper.

Newcastle have already secured Mark Gillespie for another season after triggering a contract extension clause, ensuring depth in the goalkeeping department.

However, the future of first-choice keeper Nick Pope and backup Martin Dubravka could come under scrutiny if the club succeeds in landing their top target, Burnley’s James Trafford.

The young English goalkeeper has been identified as a long-term solution, and his arrival could prompt a reshuffle among the existing options.

Meanwhile, Odysseas Vlachodimos, who joined last season, is more likely to depart on loan than in a permanent transfer.

A temporary move would be the more financially viable option for Newcastle, as an outright sale would not provide the same immediate Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR) relief.

The developments highlight Newcastle’s careful balancing act this summer—retaining experienced players where necessary while making strategic moves to refresh the squad.

Securing Ruddy’s extension would provide stability and allow the club to focus resources on other areas in need of reinforcement.

With Wilson’s future still uncertain and Trafford potentially arriving, the Magpies’ squad could look notably different by the time the new season kicks off.

For now, all signs point to Ruddy remaining at Newcastle, a decision that would bring continuity to Eddie Howe’s squad while shaping the club’s approach to the summer transfer market.

As negotiations continue behind the scenes, supporters will be eager to see how the rest of the window unfolds.