Martin Dubravka transfer twist emerges as Eddie Howe drops Newcastle United hint

Eddie Howe now believes Newcastle United stopper Martin Dubravka will stay at St James' Park beyond the January window, despite ongoing interest from Saudi Arabia.

The goalkeeper was serenaded by the Gallowgate corner during Newcastle's 3-1 win over Bromley on Sunday, applauding the fans who have backed him no end in recent weeks. Dubravka had tears in his eyes as he left the pitch for what looked like the final time at Arsenal in midweek - but just a few days on the feeling is very different as Howe suddenly seems bullish on the chances of the stopper staying put.

Asked if there was any update since the last time Howe spoke to the press, the Newcastle boss said: "No, there's no fresh update but I don't expect one. Touchwood I hope he will stay and I don't think that will change.

"We've had discussions, of course, about his future, but I think we're very relaxed. He's never said he's wanted to leave.

"I think he's enjoying being in the team, he's enjoying the moment the team's in. So I don't expect any major announcement."

Dubravka is out of contract in the summer, which has complicated matters further amid his sudden return to the first-team after Nick Pope's knee injury. The Slovakian also turns 36 in a matter of days, with his best days behind him, but no one can argue the veteran keeper hasn't excelled since being parachuted back into first-team duties under Howe.

"I hope he'll stay and hope potentially that we can agree a new contract but that's not something I'm dealing with currently," the boss added.

Pope is back in light training at present with a potential return pencilled in for later this month. Meanwhile, Odysseas Vlachodimos was being tipped by many to earn a run out against Bromley but had to settle for a place on the bench once again.

Dubravka has now featured in eight straight games for Newcastle, with the north east outfit winning each of them. Sunday's victory has earned Newcastle a spot in the fourth-round against League One outfit Birmingham City.