Amid the latest takeover talks along with a potential reunion with Rafa Benitez, Newcastle United are battling for a mid-table finish under Steve Bruce despite on an array of big results against high-profile opponents. They have struggled through injuries all season and also lacked consistency against the weaker counterparts, which has resulted in failing to build up any momentum yet.
Although it is essential to retain their top-flight existence, the gaffer must focus on rebuilding the core replacing the ageing stars in the long run. They have quite a few promising prospects progressing through the academy ranks, but, at the same time, sweating over their long-term future considering the contract status along with the transfer rumours.
According to the Chronicle Live, Steve Cooper, the Swansea City chief, has expressed his desire to keep hold of Freddie Woodman beyond the current campaign. The 22-year-old custodian, on loan from the Magpies, has been impressive between the sticks and has grabbed nine clean sheets so far for the Swans having secured the ‘number 1’ status ahead of Erwin Mulder.
“We’d all love Freddie to stay for longer than the season. Whether that’s possible, we’ll have a look in the summer. I think he’d definitely like to. The affection the fans have shown Freddie, I think he really feels it and likes to show it back because it’s mutual.”
Stated Cooper while speaking to the Wales Online.
Why It Is A Worrying Sign For Newcastle United
Woodman is under contract until the summer of 2021 at St James’ Park and rejected an extension due to concerns over his playing minutes. Newcastle have three senior keepers in their ranks, but both Karl Darlow and Rob Elliott are likely to part ways at the end of the ongoing term. Martin Dúbravka, majestic in goal, is in his 30s, and the 22-year-old Englishman, therefore, would have been a worthy alternative for the forthcoming future.
Despite being out on loan for quite some time, Woodman has finally found stability at the Liberty Stadium. The former FIFA U20 World Cup winner (2017) is enjoying first-team minutes under Cooper who is running an ambitious project in Swansea with a view of regaining their Premier League status.
Bruce, meanwhile, can’t drop Dúbravka who is delivering week in week out. The Slovakian is expected to keep his place for at least a couple of seasons more, and the club might have to let Woodman depart reluctantly for financial profit over losing him on a Bosman.
