- Reason for turning down Trafford
- Why Verbruggen is the right choice
- Goalkeeping problems at Newcastle and the necessity for a quick fix
Newcastle United are reportedly still interested in James Trafford but the Magpies should instead be looking at another Premier League goalkeeper.
The Tyneside giants were the initial frontrunners for Trafford, but the English shot-stopper opted to return to Manchester City, who activated a buy-back clause. Instead, Eddie Howe turned to Aaron Ramsdale, signing the former Arsenal goalkeeper on loan from Southampton.
Reports claim that the Magpies aren’t expected to keep Ramsdale beyond this season. That could mean a new number one is desired and it’s not Trafford who should arrive at St James’ Park.
Go For Verbruggen
Howe must turn to Brighton & Hove Albion goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen. He has previously been linked with the club amid a fine spell at the Amex, per One Football. The pressure to bring in a new keeper has increased amid a drop in team form and performance.
As Newcastle embark on a hugely important summer transfer window, one of their priorities will be finding a new man between the sticks. And their first choice should be Brighton’s Verbruggen over Trafford.
Vebruggen More Worthy
Howe’s future is in doubt, but if he is in charge next season, he will be tasked with overseeing a huge turnaround. That could be aided by signing a goalkeeper of Verbruggen’s calibre.
The 23- year old arrived at the Premier League in 2023 and has been getting better with every campaign. Before moving to England, the Dutch keeper was playing for RSC Anderlecht. Having been in the top flight for nearly three seasons, the Belgian has an understanding of English football.
| 2025/26 PL Stats | Verbruggen |
| Appearances | 31 |
| Clean Sheets | 7 |
| Save Percentage | 70.2% |
| Saves per 90 | 2.81 |
| Goals Prevented | 1.09 |
| Goals Conceded per 90 | 1.19 |
Source- Fotmob
Verbruggen is a 6’4 “keeper with good reach. The young shot-stopper is considered a modern ball-playing keeper, with composed passing and technical ability in both feet. He also displays high-level reflexes and excellent positioning within the box. Currently, the player’s market value is £50 million, and a bargain is a hard ask with the Seagulls.
At such a young age, the player has high potential, and Newcastle keeping him as their first choice seems the right way for the club.
Goalkeeping Issues
Nick Pope has lost the number one shirt to Ramsdale since the turn of the year. But the Southampton loanee hasn’t seemingly done enough to win over the coaching team after paying a £4m loan fee.
Howe is also in hot water for the first time in his tenure at the club, and his leaky defence and goalkeeping errors have cost the club massively. The manager could be heading into a make-or-break season, making this summer’s recruitment vital.
One important position is the goalkeeper, and having Verbruggen become the new number one is a good start. His performances will surely have other top clubs eyeing him ahead of the transfer window opening.
