Eddie Howe plays down David de Gea to Newcastle links

Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe says there is no truth in reports linking David de Gea to the club at the moment.

The Magpies suffered another injury blow as first-choice goalkeeper Nick Pope picked up a shoulder injury last weekend.

The England international came off in the second half of Newcastle’s win over Manchester United at St James Park after a shoulder dislocation with Martin Dubravka coming on for him.

With Pope expected to be out for a long time, former Red Devils goalkeeper De Gea has been mentioned as a target for Newcastle.

However, Howe says no decision has been made yet.

“We have not made any enquiries despite links,” he said.

“We really believe in Martin Dubravka — I’ve always had that high opinion of him. Martin is a high-class goalkeeper.”

Pope will be out of action until April next year and the club will likely be on the market in January for a replacement.

De Gea has been without a club since being released by United following the end of his contract.