BREAKING: Newcastle Revive Interest in Dream No.1 Target as Magpies Draw Up Four-Man Goalkeeper Shortlist

Newcastle United have once again identified James Trafford as their primary goalkeeper target this summer, but the Magpies are also exploring several alternative options should a deal fail to materialise.

Newcastle have twice attempted to sign Trafford in recent years. The club came close to securing the England international before Manchester City exercised their buyback clause with Burnley, bringing the goalkeeper back to the Etihad Stadium and ending Eddie Howe’s hopes of completing the transfer.

Despite that setback, Newcastle remain interested in making the 23-year-old their long-term No. 1, although Trafford is not expected to make a final decision on his future until after his international commitments.

The Magpies have therefore continued to assess alternative options in the market. Among the goalkeepers linked with a move to St James’ Park are Brighton & Hove Albion’s highly rated Bart Verbruggen, RC Lens goalkeeper Robin Risser and Borussia Dortmund’s Gregor Kobel.

Sky Sports pundit Alan Smith believes Verbruggen could be available this summer, although he expects Brighton to demand a significant transfer fee for the Dutch international following his impressive performances for the Netherlands.

“I think he will cost quite a bit,” Smith said. “He’s 23 years of age and has a lot of years ahead of him. Brighton will probably sell if the price is right, and they could make a huge profit. But they won’t want too much disruption to their squad, and there will be plenty of clubs interested in Verbruggen.”

Newcastle are also continuing to assess the future of Nick Pope while monitoring other goalkeepers who could provide competition to recent arrival Ewen Jaouen.

Should Brighton decide to cash in on Verbruggen, they may already have a ready-made replacement within their ranks. Carl Rushworth impressed during his loan spell at Coventry City last season and earned a place in the Championship Team of the Season.

Brighton have reportedly rejected a £20 million offer from Coventry, who remain keen to sign the 24-year-old on a permanent basis following their promotion to the Premier League. Rushworth was also scouted by Newcastle during the previous campaign.