Manchester United complete the loan signing of Martin Dubravka from Newcastle United.
Dubravka signed the final bits of paperwork on deadline day and now, confirmation of his loan move has come as Erik ten Hag continues to strengthen his squad.
The goalkeeper will spend the 2022/23 season at United and the deal includes the option to make the transfer permanent.
Official, confirmed. Martin Dubravka joins Manchester United on loan with buy option from Newcastle — he’s the new second goalkeeper. 🚨🔴 #MUFC #DeadlineDay pic.twitter.com/VncoZaWrLe
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) September 1, 2022
Despite the deal being announced hours prior to United’s game at Leicester City, the goalkeeper will not be registered in time to be part of the matchday squad. He is expected to come in and fight for a place with David de Gea, initially as second choice.
Speaking to club media about his move to Manchester United, Dubravka said (via ManUtd.com): “To be joining Manchester United is a special moment in my career and I can’t wait to get started, and help the group achieve its ambitions.
“I am joining an excellent group of goalkeepers with lots of experience in the Premier League, and I know that we will push and support each other to keep our standards at the highest levels. The chance to work with David De Gea, alongside Tom Heaton, is one that I am relishing.
“I’d like to sincerely thank everyone at Newcastle United, and especially the fans, for many great experiences over the past four and a half years. I enjoyed every minute of my time there and made amazing memories to look back on. My focus is now on helping Manchester United, and we’ll see what the future holds after I have given my all this season. I am excited to be here!”
Dubravka becomes United’s sixth signing of the summer after also adding Tyrell Malacia, Lisandro Martinez, Christian Eriksen and Antony.
We wish the Slovakia international the very best during his time at United.
Martin Dubvraka to eventually take David de Gea’s place
Before the season started, I wrote a piece suggesting that David de Gea could lose his place in the team this season – depending on who United signed as his back-up…
That might sound harsh on Tom Heaton, but he’s not the second-choice keeper I want behind the Spaniard.
United need someone who will push De Gea – more than Sergio Romero did a couple of years ago. Ten Hag also needs a keeper who is comfortable with the ball at his feet as well as coming off his line.
