Report: Newcastle considering future of ‘brilliant’ star amid PL interest

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Newcastle United are considering the future of goalkeeper and Arsenal target Freddie Woodman, according to The Shields Gazette.

The shot-stopper will return to St James’ Park this summer after spending a second year at Swansea City. He helped the Jacks to reach the Championship play-off final in May, but Brentford beat Steve Cooper’s side 2-0.

Woodman proved to be one of the best goalkeepers in the second-tier during his time in South Wales. No shot-stopper kept more clean sheets than his 20 in 45 games last term, excluding the play-offs, with Tim Krul second with 18.

Newcastle are now set to consider what’s best for Woodman and his future at the club amid interest from Arsenal. The Gunners are long-term admirers of the London-born titan and could rival Southampton for a summer transfer.

But the Toon are ‘most likely’ to send Woodman out on loan for a third year running next season. Marti Dubravka is likely to remain Steve Bruce’s first-choice between the sticks with support from Mark Gillespie.

Karl Darlow would remain Dubravka’s number two if he stays on Tyneside, yet his situation is still uncertain. Newcastle may also sell Woodman this summer if the right bid comes in, despite extending his contract to 2023 only last year.

TBR’s view: Woodman loan exit is best for Newcastle

Woodman will have a big say in where he ends up as the goalkeeper is unlikely to accept a seat on the Newcastle bench. But the Toon should not rush to cash in on his Swansea form as the 24-year-old can still be their future number one.

He proved his potential as a shot-stopper in the Championship and earned rave reviews from Magpies supporters with his efforts. Newcastle would now risk a big mistake by selling him over exploring another loan if he must leave.

There are bound to be Premier League clubs who would jump at the chance to take Woodman on loan. He has shown he’s above the second-tier, so it would have to be a top-flight move if Newcastle were to explore temporary deals.

Swansea boss Cooper hailed Woodman for his ‘brilliant’ efforts in South Wales, and noted via the Jacks’ website: “It’s an excellent attribute to be saving penalties on a regular basis”. A trait Newcastle could struggle to replace.