Newcastle targeting £34m goalkeeper upgrade touted as “best on the market”

Newcastle United are reportedly showing interest in LOSC Lille goalkeeper Lucas Chevalier as a potential upgrade to their current options between the posts. The 22-year-old French keeper is valued at around £34 million and is attracting attention from several top Premier League clubs.

Newcastle have faced goalkeeper issues recently with Nick Pope sidelined by injury since early December. While Martin Dúbravka has filled in capably during Newcastle’s eight-match winning streak, the club appears to be exploring longer-term solutions.

Chevalier has outperformed Pope statistically over the past two seasons across several key metrics:

• Higher save percentage (76.8% vs 71.8%)
• More clean sheets (22 vs 8)
• Fewer goals conceded per 90 minutes (0.96 vs 1.24)
• Better post-shot expected goals minus goals conceded (+7.8 vs +2.4)

The young Frenchman ranks among the top performers in Europe’s top five leagues for save percentage and preventing goals. His +5.7 post-shot expected goals minus goals conceded figure last season was especially impressive for a 21-year-old.

While Nick Pope remains Newcastle’s clear first-choice when healthy, Chevalier’s potential and statistical edge could make him an appealing long-term investment for the ambitious Premier League club. At £34 million, he may prove to be great value if he can maintain his stellar form.

With Newcastle pushing for Champions League qualification, upgrading the goalkeeper position could be a shrewd move to solidify their defense for years to come. Chevalier appears to have the talent to potentially become one of the Premier League’s top shot-stoppers.