Howe can ruthlessly axe £63k-p/w deadwood as PIF plot "insane" £40m Newcastle signing - opinion

Reports emerged last week suggesting that Newcastle United were “closing in” on a deal for Manchester United stopper Dean Henderson, with talks believed to be taking place regarding a possible loan deal, albeit with a permanent move not off the table.

The 25-year-old had come close to a deadline day switch to St James’ Park back in the winter window, although the loan deal ultimately collapsed with current number one Martin Dubravka rejecting the chance to head in the other direction.

Although the deal is not yet confirmed, it would appear that the Englishman is edging ever closer towards a move away from Old Trafford, having failed to usurp teammate David De Gea as the Red Devils’ first-choice stopper.

In truth, however, had it not been for an unfortunate absence due to the pandemic at the start of the season, it may have been the one-time Sheffield United loanee keeping his place in between the sticks under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, having ended the previous campaign with a string of league starts.

After two almost wasted years back at his parent club, some on Tyneside may have doubts over whether the £40m man is the right fit to be their starting stopper moving forwards, although the Whitehaven-born star’s form at Bramall Lane is seemingly enough evidence to calm those nerves.

In his two year stint with the Blades, Henderson helped Chris Wilder’s side to promotion to the top flight, before impressing in his debut campaign at the top level, conceding just 33 goals in 36 games and making 13 clean sheets – the fourth-highest in the division.

Dubbed “insane” by former teammate Sander Berge, the one-cap international is a player tipped to go right to the very top of the game, with it seemingly not too much of a risk should