Newcastle agree fee to sell Martin Dubravka – Medical underway and move imminent

Newcastle United have reached an agreement with Burnley for the permanent transfer of veteran goalkeeper Martin Dubravka, bringing his seven-year St James’ Park tenure to a close.

The 36-year-old Slovak international is currently undergoing medical examinations ahead of his imminent switch to Turf Moor, with all parties moving swiftly to finalize the deal before preseason preparations intensify.

Dubravka’s departure follows Burnley’s proactive search for experienced goalkeeping cover after securing Aaron Ramsdale’s services from Southampton.

The Clarets identified the Newcastle shot-stopper as their preferred target earlier this week, with negotiations progressing rapidly since initial reports surfaced about his availability.

The transfer marks the end of an eventful chapter for Dubravka on Tyneside, where he initially arrived on loan from Sparta Prague in January 2018 before making the move permanent that summer.

His Newcastle career included 157 appearances across all competitions and a brief 2022 loan spell at Manchester United, with his most recent contract extension in January 2024 primarily serving to ward off interest from Saudi Pro League side Al-Shabab.

Dubravka’s move to Lancashire represents a sensible transition for all involved. Newcastle benefit from offloading an aging player with one year remaining on his contract, while Burnley acquire a proven Premier League performer capable of pushing Ramsdale for the starting position. For the player himself, the switch offers guaranteed top-flight football at this late stage of his career.

The Slovak keeper departs having played a crucial role during Nick Pope’s extended injury absence last season, producing several standout performances that demonstrated his enduring quality.

His professionalism throughout various squad rotations and his willingness to step up when called upon have cemented his reputation as a respected figure within the Newcastle dressing room.

As Dubravka prepares for his medical in Lancashire, Newcastle’s goalkeeping department will now focus on integrating new recruits while maintaining competition between Pope and understudies.

The deal’s swift conclusion reflects well on all parties’ desire for a clean, respectful transition that serves everyone’s interests ahead of the new campaign.