Goalkeeper Martin Dubravka has admitted that he had offers from elsewhere before choosing to join Manchester United on loan from Newcastle United during the summer transfer window.
The Slovakian, who will turn 34 next month, joined United on a season-long loan deal from the Magpies on the final day of the summer transfer window. The Reds wanted to add a degree of competition to their goalkeeping department and identified Dubravka as an ideal candidate to provide some competition for David de Gea.
Dubravka, who joined Newcastle back in 2018, initially on loan from Sparta Prague, was expected to become United's cup 'keeper and feature prominently in the Europa League. However, De Gea has retained the gloves in Europe so far this season, restricting the Slovakian to just one appearance so far.
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The Newcastle loanee made his United bow in last month's 4-2 Carabao Cup win over Aston Villa at Old Trafford. However, considering De Gea was not included in Spain's World Cup squad, it is possible that he could start the fourth round tie with Burnley later this month, just under a week ahead of the Premier League campaign resuming.
But despite limited opportunities so far this season, the goalkeeper has revealed that the opportunity to join United was simply too good to turn down.
"You always have to be ready," Dubravka told United's club website. "I'm trying to prepare as a normal game, it's up to the coach who he is going to pick, but I try to be fit.
"I had a couple of offers as well from abroad, and here in England in as well, which I considered. But, obviously when I had the chance to join Manchester United, it was quite simple for me.
"I wanted to join and want to be part of the process and part of this club. So I'm here now."
Last month, Newcastle boss Eddie Howe confirmed that he would hold talks with Dubravka about the prospect of recalling him. The St James' Park outfit have the option to recall the goalkeeper and have refused to close the door completely on his career at the club.
"All I will say is I love Martin as a lad, he did brilliantly for us last year," said Howe. "And he is an outstanding goalkeeper and I will have a chat with him at the right time.
"Of course, yes the door is still open. A lot depends on what Martin wants. We will take it from there."
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