The stage is set for Woodman to be Newcastle’s future first-choice keeper

With his new deal, Freddie Woodman is on track to become the Newcastle United #1 between the sticks in the future.

For years, Freddie Woodman has been considered the goalkeeper of the future for Newcastle United. He’s an Academy product of the club and has performed well on the international stage for the youth levels of the Three Lions. But, then his contract began to run down and uncertainty arose with his future at the club. Today, a new long-term deal puts everything back on track.

Yesterday, Woodman signed a contract extension with the Magpies for three years, plus a fourth-year option. It was also announced that he will re-join Swansea City on loan again for this season, after a solid 2019/20 campaign with the club. He helped the Swans make it to the EFL Playoffs before they were bounced by Brentford, finishing the year with 12 clean sheets in league play.

The previous season was a frustrating one for the young keeper as he was kept around Newcastle for cup matches and as an emergency option in goal rather than being able to get consistent time on loan. It was during that campaign that it seemed like he might be biding his time until his deal expired.

But, with his new contract, the 23-year-old goalkeeper will be able to continue his development with first-team minutes for the Swan and his timeline could line up with replacing Martin Dubravka at some point. The Slovakian is Newcastle’s most consistent player, but he’s 31 now and could either make a move to a bigger club or see his form dip a bit.