Newcastle United were tipped to sign a new goalkeeper throughout the summer window.
Could Newcastle United move for Iker Casillas in January?
El Pais reports that Porto are looking to push the former Spain and Real Madrid goalkeeper out of Estadio do Dragao this winter, having been warned by UEFA about the need to comply with financial fair play regulations.
So, Casillas on Tyneside? HITC Sport takes a look.
What’s the connection?
Newcastle, who were strongly tipped to sign a new goalkeeper this summer, are managed by Rafa Benitez, who is Spanish, like Casillas, and worked with the legendary shot-stopper briefly at Real Madrid.
But isn’t Benitez the man who got rid of him?
That’s technically correct, although Benitez insisted it was Casillas who instigated his move to Porto and not the other way around (Goal). He later described the 36-year-old as ‘the best goalkeeper in [Real Madrid’s] history’ and the pair remained in contact after Casillas had left, according to the player (Chronicle).
So what are the chances?
Unless their proposed takeover goes through soon (and these things rarely reach a swift conclusion), Newcastle are unlikely to have too much cash to spend in January. And while Porto’s situation could save the Magpies money in terms of a transfer fee, Casillas is still likely to command high wages (he’s said to earn around £85,000 a week in Portugal). Interest from Newcastle would be plausible, although they may need to find a buyer for Karl Darlow before any deal comes to fruition.
Would Casillas be a good signing?
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