Newcastle United veteran breaks silence on transfer links after stunning Euro 2024 upset

Martin Dubravka has insisted he “doesn’t care what happens” regarding his Newcastle United future following recent transfer links.

The 35-year-old, who has one year remaining on his contract, is linked with a move to Celtic after Joe Hart retired at the end of the season. Dubravka joined the Magpies in 2018 and, until Nick Pope’s arrival, was the No.1 choice between the sticks.

He was called upon 30 times last season as Pope sat sidelined with a shoulder injury. However, Dubravka appeared to show signs of decline, with reports claiming Newcastle are on the hunt for a new goalkeeper.

NewcastleWorld understands James Trafford is the man Eddie Howe has identified to rival Pope next season. Dubravka would be allowed to leave for a nominal fee but, after stunning Belgium 1-0 in Slovakia’s Euro 2024 opener, the keeper highlighted his efforts at St James’ Park - with his focus now glued to the national team.

“It's hard for me to comment on that because I get information from the newspaper about who we are signing,” Dubravka said. “If I'm honest, I don't care what happens anymore. I defended my place and did my best for the club.

“If they decide to bring someone else, I won't influence it anymore. This is going aside at the moment, I'm trying to concentrate on the national team now. I let the rest out of my head.”

The Slovak also hailed his teammates for causing the shock of Euro 2024 so far. Belgium saw two Romelu Lukaku strikes disallowed, with Dubravka being called upon several times to keep the world No.3 ranked team at bay.

“It’s a massive result for us,” he added. “Obviously, this was a very tough opponent to play against. They have individual qualities but, I have to say, as a team today, we were better. The team effort will always beat individuals. It’s huge. As a start to the tournament, we couldn’t have asked for a better result.

“It was a difficult match. They have Kevin De Bruyne, (Jeremy) Doku and others. But I have to admit, we were the better team today. Let us celebrate a little bit and our next opponent is in a couple of days. We need to recover now but enjoy this at the same time.”