Freddie Woodman is yet to make his Newcastle United debut, but a new veteran goalkeeper could clear his path to the first team.
Newcastle United’s Freddie Woodman
Freddie Woodman has played a key role in helping England to the semi-finals of the U20 World Cup in South Korea.
The Three Lions have won all four of the games in which the Newcastle United goalkeeper has played, conceding only once – from the rebound of a penalty saved by Woodman.
Newcastle United’s Freddie Woodman
Meanwhile, back on Tyneside, key moves are set to be made in the transfer market that could shape the 20-year-old’s future.
Woodman is one of five first-team keepers at St James’ Park, yet manager Rafa Benitez is reportedly chasing another – The Times claim he hopes to bring in departing Manchester City man Willy Caballero.
However, that signing could work in Woodman’s favour.
Karl Darlow, Tim Krul and Matz Sels are all likely to see their places come under threat and the arrival of a veteran – such as 35-year-old Caballero – should clear a path to the number 1 shirt in years to come.
Willy Caballero celebrates for Manchester City
Although Woodman may look to make a loan move after an impressive spell at Kilmarnock last term, he could return with a realistic chance of succeeding an ageing Caballero.
Rivals Sunderland allowed Jordan Pickford – another England youth prospect – a route to the first team and Newcastle must now follow suit.
Sunderland’s Jordan Pickford
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