Newcastle United are set to make Mark Gillespie their first signing of the summer with the ex-Motherwell goalkeeper closing in on a return to St James’ Park, according to The Chronicle.
When a Newcastle-born shot-stopper left the Magpies for Carlisle in 2008, he probably thought that his childhood dream had passed him by.
But, 12 years on, it seems that Gillespie is heading back to where it all began after showcasing his impressive reflexes north of the border.
The late-blooming glovesman kept 16 clean sheets in all competitions last season as Motherwell finished third in the Scottish Premiership.
But, with his contract expiring in July, Stephen Robinson’s side have already confirmed the departure of one of their star men.
And who can blame Gillespie for turning down the chance to extend his stay at Firhill?
After all, he might never get a better chance to finally, after 12 years away, make his debut for one of the biggest clubs in British football.
Then again, Gillespie will have to get used to life on the sidelines at St James’ with his return to Newcastle expected to be announced sooner rather than later.
The Chronicle claims that the returning Magpie will not challenge Martin Dubravka for a place in Steve Bruce’s starting XI.
He might even find himself stuck behind Karl Darlow in the pecking order, with Gillespie expected to replace the departing Rob Elliot to become Newcastle’s new third-choice goalkeeper.
Swapping regular first-team football for the odd EFL Cup cameo; it’s fair to say no one can doubt Gillespie’s desire to represent this grand old club.
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