Borussia Dortmund Veteran Rejected Newcastle Despite Lucrative Summer Offer: Report

Newcastle United made significant changes to its squad during the summer, with the goalkeeper position among the areas fully addressed as Matthias Jaissle began reshaping the team following his arrival.

Before those plans were finalized, however, Newcastle apparently attempted to land one of Europe’s most highly regarded goalkeepers.

According to German outlet BILD, the Magpies approached Borussia Dortmund’s Gregor Kobel during the summer, only for the 28-year-old to reject the opportunity. Kobel could have earned “significantly more money” by moving to England but decided that remaining with Dortmund was more important.

The Switzerland international’s reasoning reportedly centered on his belief that he can challenge for trophies with his current club, something he wasn’t convinced would be the case in Tyneside.

“Kobel is convinced he can soon win titles with Borussia Dortmund,” BILD reported. “Therefore, he’s not currently considering a move.”

That stance means Newcastle’s failure to land Kobel was apparently not primarily financial, but more of a career decision for the goalie. Kobel simply chose to remain at Dortmund because of his confidence in the Bundesliga club’s sporting prospects more than in helping the rebuilding Magpies.

BILD added that Kobel would only seriously consider leaving for Newcastle or any other club if he loses faith in Dortmund’s ability to compete for major honors.

Making this transfer more of a dreamy one, BILD reported that Newcastle is not alone in identifying him as a potential target. Turns out Real Madrid has now placed Kobel on its shortlist, with a potential move becoming more relevant if the Spanish club fails to extend Thibaut Courtois’ contract.

Dortmund, meanwhile, wants to keep Kobel beyond his existing agreement, which runs through 2028.

While this report, if true, confirms that Newcastle’s interest went beyond simply monitoring the Swiss international and that an approach was made, it’s likely the Magpies board knew they were facing long odds to land the keeper.

Do you think Newcastle has a shot at a long-term No. 1 in Kobel? And back to reality, are you happy with how the club ultimately handled the goalkeeper position? Let us know in the comments.