Newcastle fail in loan bid for Martin Dubravka from Sparta Prague
By Keith Downie
Last Updated: 15/01/18 1:34pm
Newcastle have failed in a loan bid for Sparta Prague goalkeeper Martin Dubravka, according to Sky sources.
Rafa Benitez had wanted to take the Slovakia international on loan until the summer and battle Rob Elliot and Karl Darlow for a starting spot.
The 29-year-old played for Slovakia against England in a World Cup Qualifier at Wembley last year and has nine caps for his country.
Benitez remains keen to add a goalkeeper to his ranks in this window, with Elliot and Darlow having shared goalkeeping duties for 15th-placed Newcastle this season.
Dubravka has made 11 appearances for Sparta Prague since joining from Czech side Slovan Liberec on a free transfer last summer.
Benitez on Friday he was speaking with agents regarding transfers but remained uncertain over his budget.
A strike from Joselu ensured Newcastle secured a point against Swansea on Saturday ahead of their trip to Manchester City at the weekend.
