Newcastle boss Howe admits he is struggling to convince Dubravka to stay

Newcastle boss Eddie Howe admits they face a battle to keep Martin Dubravka.

The veteran goalkeeper is wanted in the Saudi Pro League III Al-Shabaab are sharp.

Xavi spoke today before Saturday with Brighton, and admitted: “The situation is that we don’t want him to leave. But you have to respect a player’s wishes. It’s not clear.

“He’s out of contract in the summer, so that’s another aspect to add to the mix.”

On transfer talk in general, Howe insisted: it comes with the territory. “Maybe in my early days it would have left more of an impression, but when you’re in my position, you ignore it and it’s irrelevant.

“There will be so much talk and you can’t control it so you don’t even try.”