Newcastle United are ready to place a bid for Real Madrid goalkeeper Andriy Lunin, but will have to fend off interest from Arsenal, according to reports.
The revelation comes as Burnley custodian James Trafford is expected to join the Magpies this summer, adding competition for Nick Pope.
Loris Karius, the club’s third-choice custodian, has been released, while 35-year-old Martin Dubravka is reportedly expected to go due to interest from Celtic and Saudi clubs.
Sport reports that Lunin might cost Newcastle and Arsenal up to £21 million this summer.
Lunin is a Champions League winner
Lunin moved to the Spanish Giants in 2018 from Zorya Luhansk for a reported £7 million plus add-ons.
He only became a prominent player in Real Madrid’s squad this season after Thibaut Courtois sustained a near-season-ending injury.
Last season, the Ukrainian international made 21 La Liga games and helped Real Madrid win another Champions League.
Newcastle would benefit from having a man with that level of experience in the squad, especially if a young custodian like Trafford joins.
Newcastle have already been busy in the transfer window.
It appears that the Magpies will have a busy summer as they attempt to offload and add depth to parts of the pitch that have become more active.
Lloyd Kelly’s arrival fills a void in a defence plagued by long-term ailments.
Trafford’s anticipated arrival provides the Magpies with another good option between the posts, while Lunin would add depth and competition for Pope.
The Magpies are also planning to announce the permanent acquisition of Lewis Hall, who impressed while on loan last season.
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