Newcastle journalist: 25 y/o who Howey dubbed 'excellent' now 'on verge' of leaving - report

Newcastle United journalist Scott Wilson has revealed that Freddie Woodman is now ‘on verge’ of leaving St. James’ Park.

Woodman has suffered from a lack of game time throughout his career in the North East, with just five senior appearances made last season, and nine in total spanning over six separate campaigns (Transfermarkt).

He was shipped out on loan to AFC Bournemouth in the January transfer window, but only played once for them, in the shock 1-0 loss at home to non-league Boreham Wood in the FA Cup.

Taking to Twitter, Wilson has revealed that Woodman is now ‘on verge’ of signing for Preston North End on loan for next season, with a view to a permanent deal:

“NUFC goalkeeper Freddie Woodman on verge of joining Preston on season-long loan, with a view to a permanent departure from St James’ next summer…”

While the move to take him to Preston is only on loan initially, the Tynesiders should be happy to sell Woodman permanently, even in 12 months’ time.

The Englishman is 25 years of age now, and so needs to be playing regular football, which he is clearly not getting at the Magpies.

It is a shame for a player who has shown promise, as former Toon defender Steve Howey hailed him as ‘excellent’ after a successful loan spell at Swansea City, but next summer provides the optimum time for both him and the club to part ways.

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