Manchester United announced a deal to sign Martin Dubravka on deadline day.
The Slovakian goalkeeper joined on a loan deal, and will provide extra competition for David de Gea.
The move for Dubravka came after an indecisive goalkeeper hunt from United, which saw a rejected approach for Eintracht Frankfurt goalkeeper Kevin Trapp.
Dubravka admitted Manchester United’s approach came late in the transfer window.
READ MORE: Confirmed Manchester United transfers, ins, outs, loans, releases for 2022/23
Dubravka says talks only began a week ago
Speaking to United’s club website, Dubravka explained that the talks materialised very quickly.
He said: “I would say a week ago starts the conversations between the agents and the clubs and after that they informed me that there is a chance to join them, I said ‘OK, let’s do it’ and I’m here now.”
The Slovakian international said he was delighted to make the switch, regarding it as a big step up in his career.
He said: “It’s a very exciting time for me, it’s a massive step in my career again, so I’m happy to be here.”
Dubravka was a regular for Newcastle last season but had been moved aside for new signing Nick Pope, and so felt now was the right time to make the move.
United have only signed him on loan, so there is no commitment beyond this season, but if the deal does work out, the club have an option to buy as part of the agreement.
It is up to Dubravka to prove he deserves to play regularly, and he is not at United simply to sit on the bench, he says he wants to contribute and improve as a player.
He added: “I’m here to push as well, I want to become a better player and I have a great opportunity to do it.”
- MARTIN DUBRAVKA: Factfile
- Dubravka has racked up 171 Premier League appearances for Newcastle.
- His Newcastle debut came in a 1-0 win over Manchester United in 2018.
- He is a Slovakia international with 29 caps for his country.
- Dubravka has Champions League and Europa League experience with former clubs MSK Zilina and Esbjerg.
- Last season Dubravka made 26 Premier League starts for Newcastle.
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