Newcastle United are in the driving seat to sign Lazio goalkeeper Thomas Strakosha, with the Albanian international set to leave the Serie A side this summer at the end of his contract.
According to Il Messaggero, the Magpies are keen on adding more quality between the sticks in the transfer window, with Newcastle now best suited to signing Strakosha this summer, with Premier League rivals Watford also interested in the keeper.
However, given the Hornets’ likely relegation back down to the Championship, Newcastle could be in the clear to sign Strakosha, who is keen to play in England after being one of the top names in Italy for Lazio for the past few years.
Hailed as an ‘outstanding’ keeper by former Lazio coach Alberto Bollini, the 27-year-old Greek-born keeper has made 200 appearances for Lazio during his time with the Roman club, and for Newcastle, they could view themselves as the favourites to sign Strakosha.
The goalkeeper position has been something of an enigma for Newcastle in recent years, with the likes of Martin Dubravka, Karl Darlow and Freddie Woodman all holding the no. 1 spot at some time and all doing a decent job between the sticks.
Yet despite this remarkable depth in quality for Newcastle, Eddie Howe remains eager to strengthen the position this summer, and Strakosha could become the asserted first-choice option for the Magpies ahead of next season.
Strakosha could be Newcastle’s starting keeper for years to come
One of Serie A’s top keepers before falling out of favour at Lazio, Strakosha is ready for a new change in his career, and Newcastle could offer the Albanian superstar just that this summer when his contract comes to an end.
A keeper noted for his athleticism, Strakosha could easily become Newcastle’s no. 1 shot-stopper for years to come. And in terms of a free signing, the Magpies will find no better this summer than the Serie A superstar.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
