Newcastle United are close to finding a new home for one of their goalkeepers.
Newcastle United and manager Rafa Benitez will certainly be looking to sign reinforcements this summer, as the Magpies aim to improve upon their top-half finish in the Premier League. However, some players will be on the way out also, and one could be set to be confirmed very soon.
Matz Sels is poised to put his disappointing spell on Tyneside behind him, with reports that the goalkeeper has a verbal agreement confirmed with Anderlecht for a permanent move. The 26-year-old spent the 2017-18 season on-loan with the Belgian club, and all involved are interested in making the deal happen.
Sels joined the Toon two years ago, but fell out of favour with the team after difficulties and saw Karl Darlow take over a starting role.
Sels almost sold. Anderlecht are in advanced negotiations with Newcastle over Matz Sels. The goalkeeper already has a verbal agreement with #RSCA for 5 years. He joined the Belgian club on loan last summer. (Via @PJCalcoen) #nufc pic.twitter.com/alEBZ4NvCD
— Kristof Terreur (@kristofterreur) May 23, 2018
Ultimately, this is a situation that should be handled quickly, which is the best possible scenario.
Benitez has lost faith in Sels as a possible contributor in the future, and the club are moving in a new direction.
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Adding to all that, completing a transfer swiftly may also allow for other options to be finalised as well.
Confirming Dubravka
Rumours have speculated that an official announcement for Martin Dubravka may arrive as soon as Sels’ sale is done, and that thought makes sense here.
The Magpies will want to have as much clarity as possible in regards to their goalkeepers before they make any other potential decisions.
Dubravka showcased his abilities as a first-choice option, and building depth at the position may be the next step.
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Newcastle United and Rafa Benitez do not appear to have any plans for Matz Sels at St. James’ Park. A switch to Anderlecht not only seems like the right conclusion for him, it is a necessary one.