Newcastle United summer ‘target’ spotted on Tyneside as transfer window officially opens, Not James Trafford
Newcastle United Step Up Goalkeeper Search as Familiar Face Spotted on Tyneside
Newcastle United are preparing for a busy summer transfer window, with a particular focus on reinforcing their goalkeeping options. The Magpies are reportedly in the market for one, potentially even two, new shot-stoppers ahead of the 2025/26 season. While fans have speculated about big names such as James Trafford, Anthony Elanga, or Joao Pedro being linked to the club, the latest sighting on Tyneside is a little less headline-grabbing — though it certainly sparked curiosity.
Over the weekend, former Newcastle United goalkeeper Tim Krul was seen enjoying himself on home turf. Krul was in attendance at the second of Sam Fender’s three hometown concerts in Newcastle, sharing his experience across social media with nostalgic messages and photos from the event. Despite the excitement this caused among supporters, it appears Krul’s visit was purely personal and not related to any imminent return to St. James’ Park.
UEFA Squad Rules: Why Tim Krul Would Have Made Sense
Krul, who spent over a decade at Newcastle earlier in his career, was recently linked with a surprise return to Tyneside by multiple media outlets. The interest, it was claimed, stemmed less from his current form and more from the strategic advantage his return could offer in European competition.
Due to his long association with Newcastle during his formative years, Krul qualifies as a ‘club-trained’ player under UEFA regulations. This designation is valuable because it allows clubs to include such players in their 25-man Champions League squad without occupying one of the more limited non-club-trained slots. In practical terms, bringing Krul back would have allowed manager Eddie Howe to include an additional outfield player in his European squad — an important consideration when managing a team across domestic and continental competitions.
At present, veteran keeper John Ruddy, if retained, would occupy that club-trained slot, potentially limiting the options for outfield players in the squad. Thus, Krul’s name was floated as a logical solution.
However, any hopes of a romantic return to Newcastle for the 37-year-old Dutchman appear to be fading.
Why a Krul Reunion Seems Unlikely
Despite the rumours and his high-profile visit, sources close to the situation have indicated that a deal for Krul is improbable. NewcastleWorld understands that there has been no formal approach from the club, and Krul himself has not received any concrete offers.
Furthermore, the goalkeeper — who will be officially released by Luton Town at the end of June — recently sold his home in the North East, suggesting he is not preparing for a return to the region. Although Krul is reportedly open to a return and maintains fond memories of his time at Newcastle, those close to him suggest he does not anticipate a call from the club’s hierarchy.
It’s worth noting that this is not the first time such speculation has surrounded Krul. Similar rumours made the rounds two years ago ahead of the 2023-24 Champions League campaign, but nothing materialized then either.
Transfer Window Opens – Forster a More Realistic Option?
As the summer transfer window officially opens — running from June 16 until the beginning of September — Newcastle’s search for a goalkeeper is expected to intensify. While Krul may not be the man to fill the role, another former academy product has emerged as a more realistic target.
Fraser Forster, who came through Newcastle’s youth ranks before forging a successful career elsewhere, is reportedly under consideration. According to The Daily Mail, Forster’s status as a club-trained player under UEFA rules makes him a practical option for Eddie Howe’s squad planning. He also brings recent Premier League experience, having stepped in for Tottenham Hotspur last season during an injury crisis.
The Current Goalkeeping Picture at Newcastle
Newcastle’s goalkeeping department is currently a crowded one, though not all of their shot-stoppers are expected to see much game time. The current roster includes:
Nick Pope – The established No.1 when fit, and Howe’s clear first choice.
Martin Dubravka – Set to leave the club if a new goalkeeper is signed.
John Ruddy – Still in negotiations for a one-year extension but may block a European outfield slot due to UEFA rules.
Odysseas Vlachodimos – A Greek international with minimal impact since joining; made just one appearance in the Carabao Cup and is currently fourth-choice.
Mark Gillespie – Recently extended his contract, though primarily seen as a training ground keeper.
Vlachodimos’ situation is especially notable given the financial manoeuvring involved in his arrival. He joined Newcastle in a move tied to Elliot Anderson’s £35 million transfer the other way, raising eyebrows due to its impact on Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR).
Final Thoughts
While Tim Krul’s recent visit to Newcastle may have rekindled fond memories for fans and stirred transfer speculation, a return to the club appears unlikely. Instead, the Magpies are expected to pursue more practical and immediate solutions, with Fraser Forster emerging as a candidate to bolster their ranks without complicating UEFA squad limitations.
For Newcastle United, the summer is shaping up to be one of careful squad balancing, both in terms of talent and regulation — and the goalkeeping department is at the heart of it.