'My future is up in the air' – return 'home' to Newcastle United in doubt for keeper

Mark Gillespie, a Newcastle academy graduate, was in talks with the Magpies about a return to St James’s Park – with United set to move on at least two of their four senior keepers on their books this summer.

As revealed by the Athletic, the 28-year-old goalkeeper had been in “extensive discussions with Newcastle about signing a pre-contract” ahead of a free transfer move from Motherwell in the summer.

But coronavirus uncertainty and takeover talk has seen those talks end.

Addressing his future Newcastle-born Gillespie, known as a penalty save specialist north of the border, told the Daily Record: “My future is up in the air at the moment until everyone knows the situation with the wider game.

“Clubs, players, managers don’t know what’s coming next week never mind next season.

“Once it becomes clear where the leagues stand and things like that there will be conversations to be had.

“Lockdown has been hard for everyone but it’s given me a chance to complete the final module of my first year of a business management degree.

“Goalies get this rep that they are mad. Okay certain elements of the position probably mean it helps to be a bit crazy but to say we are all mental is a complete myth.

“A few team mates down the years have said I’m one of the few with a brain. I’m not blowing my own trumpet but I’d say I’m probably right at the top of the class in the Motherwell changing room - I’ll not say who’s bottom!”

The Atheltic report claim Gillespie was close to agreeing a deal before professional football was put on hold and is still “wanted by the present regime”.

Rob Elliot’s Newcastle deal is set to come to an end in June, while Karl Darlow has a year remaining but his future remains uncertain.

England youth international Freddie Woodman also has a year left on his United deal but will likely be sent back out on loan, with Swansea City keen to keep the 23-year-old.