Man United star leaves club after major transfer U-turn, Erik ten Hag must replace him

Newcastle United have recalled Martin Dubravka from his loan spell at Manchester United.

The Slovakia international moved to Old Trafford in September on a season-long loan with an option.

However, in a major transfer U-turn, the Magpies have recalled the 33-year-old to act as cover for Nick Pope for the remainder of the season.

In a statement, United said: "We would like to thank Martin for his contribution during his time with our club, and wish him all the best for the future."

The 33-year-old made just two appearances for Erik ten Hag’s side in his short spell at Old Trafford, both in the Carabao Cup.

He will return to Tyne-side, where he has made 130 appearances and kept 37 Premier League clean sheets since arriving at Newcastle in 2018.

What next for United?

Dubravka arrived at United thinking he could provide competition for David De Gea, though has since spent every Premier League minute watching on from the sidelines.

While he has barely featured for United, his departure does present a complication for those in charge of the club’s recruitment.

Indeed, United are said to be considering allowing De Gea to leave Old Trafford when his existing deal expires in June.

The 32-year-old’s contract is out in the summer, and the Old Trafford club are yet to have taken up an option to extend the deal by a further 12 months.

In turn United need to dip into the market for a keeper. There has been speculation linking United to Borussia Monchengladbach shot-stopper Yann Sommer, who is also out of contract in June.