The Magpies' are likely to make a surprise transfer of Spurs' goalkeeper Hugo Lloris in January

Newcastle will consider making a surprise transfer with Tottenham goalkeeper Hugo Lloris in mind, deciding in January that it needed an additional goalkeeper for Nick Pope. The 31-year-old goalkeeper will be sidelined for several months with a dislocated shoulder, leaving Howe to instil confidence in his future number two.

Martin Dubravka replaced the starting goalkeeper in Newcastle's 3-0 defeat to Everton on Thursday and is expected to remain in goal for the foreseeable future with Loris Karius as back-up. However, the January transfer window will allow the club to recruit a replacement for Pope as they look to continue improving performance across the board after a successful season last year.

Newcastle could make a surprise move for Lloris, who will no longer play for Tottenham and could open the door to a move to St James's Park. The 36-year-old French man made the last of his 447 Tottenham appearances last season and has not been involved in a game this season after attempting a summer move. He failed to make it happen but is still looking for a chance to leave the Lilywhites he once captained and Newcastle could provide the perfect opportunity to do so.

At 36 years old, the former World Cup winner will not be a long-term solution for any team but will be able to provide adequate cover until Pope returns at the end of the season. Howe, however, has stated that he is happy with Dubravka coming on as a temporary substitute in the match against Tottenham. "We haven't made any inquiries or decisions about recruiting players ahead of January," Howe said.

“This is an opportunity for the goalkeepers we have at the football club to establish their position, and that will apply to all other positions at the club.” Apart from Lloris, Newcastle still maintains an interest in signing free-transfer goalkeeper David de Gea after being released from Manchester United last season. The Spanish goalkeeper remains a free agent following his departure from Old Trafford after 12 years and has shared some cryptic messages on social media about his future.

Newcastle are believed to be interested in De Gea's free agent status and EPL experience, something Lloris could also possess. The Magpies have also been linked with a loan move for the Gunners' number two Aaron Ramsdale in January 2024.