Martin Dubravka won't settle for an understudy role at Newcastle next season, according to journalist Pete O'Rourke.

The 29-cap Slovakia international is the current number one at St James' Park, but Eddie Howe wants to sign a goalkeeper this summer which could see him slip down the pecking order.

What's the latest news involving Dubravka?

Since returning from injury to take his place back in the side at the back end of November, the stopper has done a fine job.

In his 18 appearances, Newcastle have suffered six defeats, two of which have come in the last two games at Chelsea and Everton, while Dubravka has managed to keep four clean sheets in that period.

Since Dubravka's return to the fold, Newcastle have conceded just 22 goals in those 18 matches, compared to 27 in their first 12 top-flight fixtures this term, which signals a significant improvement.

However, Howe still tried desperately to sign a goalkeeper in January and is expected to continue his interest heading into the summer months.

But O'Rourke doesn't believe that Howe's current number one would be content with a bit-part role next season should the Newcastle boss get his wish.

What did O'Rourke say about Dubravka?

He told GIVEMESPORT: "I'm not too sure Dubravka will be happy to be number two at Newcastle. It'll be interesting to see if that's the case."

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What goalkeepers have Newcastle been linked with?

According to the Daily Mail, Newcastle have already drawn up a shortlist of shotstoppers they're interested in signing this season.

Dean Henderson, who the Mapgies were linked with in January, is on the list, as is Bernd Leno and Kepa Arrizabalaga, who are both surplus to requirements at Arsenal and Chelsea and are likely to push for summer moves away from London.

Meanwhile, Newcastle are also keeping a close eye on West Brom's Sam Johnstone, who's out of contract at the Hawthorns this summer and can therefore be signed for nothing.

It's not yet clear whether one of those arriving would see Dubravka immediately lose his control of the gloves, but a summer addition would put the Slovak's place as first choice under serious threat.