According to Goal, Jan Oblak is open to joining a Premier League side, with Newcastle said to be interested in the Atlético Madrid glovesman.
What’s the story?
Well, it was La Razon who revealed that Newcastle could make a move for the Slovenia international, who has a release clause worth £100m.
Interestingly, Goal state that the Magpies can afford to sign him.
Now, Newcastle have received a small boost in their pursuit of the 29-year-old, as Goal believe he wouldn’t be against a move to England.
Oblak has entered the final 18 months of his contract at the Wanda Metropolitano, and could therefore be available for a cut-price fee.
Chelsea shot-stopper Kepa Arrizabalaga is a potential replacement who Diego Simeone could pursue, although the Argentine is reluctant to lose Oblak.
If the former Benfica goalkeeper refuses to sign a new deal, however, Simeone will have no say in the matter.
So far this season, Oblak hasn’t been at his best behind a leaky Atlético Madrid backline, conceding 36 goals in 28 games.
Newcastle may have to wait for Jan Oblak
Despite his openness towards the Premier League, Newcastle may still have to wait a while until they can sign Oblak.
Crucially, Goal believe the Slovenian wants to join a team who can challenge for major honours immediately, something that may be out of Newcastle’s reach at the moment.
In three or four years, the Magpies could be challenging for the Premier League title.
After all, it took Manchester City just four years to win the Premier League, lifting the trophy in 2012 after being taken over in 2008.
Perhaps Newcastle can lure Oblak to Tyneside with an attractive salary package, and convince him to be part of the journey to the top instead of joining when they arrive at the summit.
Keep an eye on this saga, as anything could happen this summer.
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