Sunderland AFC are mulling over a summer move for out-of-favour Newcastle United talent Nathan Harker, according to the Shields Gazette.
The Black Cats recently took the young shot-stopper on trial and Harker’s efforts for the Stadium of Light natives impressed U23s coach Elliott Dickman, who will continue monitoring the goalie’s situation over the coming months.
Dickman is yet to decide whether or not our fierce rivals will look to snap up one of our academy products, who struggled earlier in the season while on loan with National League North side Blyth Spartans.
Harker began the term in a box seat to impress United staff by starting the non-league outfit’s first six games, but had lost his place in the side by late August and only featured twice more before being recalled in December.
Sunderland were willing to give him another shot by welcoming the Northampton-born ‘keeper to Wearside on trial, and Harker left a positive impression with Dickman telling the Sunderland Echo: “The keeper, Nathan, has made a couple of good saves.”
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Harker has since returned to Newcastle and was on the bench as our U23s beat Swansea City, though his future could still be with the Black Cats as the Shields Gazette understand they are still considering a summer swoop.
The 21-year-old does not have a future at St. James’ Park after being informed that he can train away from Newcastle, having been deemed surplus to requirements ahead of becoming a free agent at the close of the campaign.
Harker’s struggles to establish himself in non-league football should have come as an early warning sign that his Toon career was heading toward its end, with Martin Dubravka our undisputed number one and only a proven shot-stopper will be able to rival the Slovakian.
In other Newcastle United news, the club risk missing out on Bruce’s number one January target again following the player’s reported decision.