Barca mull move for keeper Krul

FORMER Newcastle United goalkeeper Tim Krul is set to be released by Brighton and Hove Albion – with Spanish champions Barcelona reportedly interested in the Dutch international.

The 30-year-old failed to make a single league appearance for the Seagulls last season, finding himself as deputy to Mathew Ryan. Krul’s contract expires this summer.

But despite his lack of football over the last few seasons – partly the result of a serious knee injury he sustained in October 2015 – the Netherlands international could move to the Nou Camp.

According to Mundo Deportivo, should back-up Barcelona goalkeeper Jasper Cillessen leave in search of first-team football, then Krul

has been mentioned as a potential replacement.

Rui Patricio, who has had his contract rescinded at Sporting Lisbon, and Everton’s Joel Robles are also mentioned as targets – with Barcelona seemingly unwilling to pay a fee for a new back-up keeper to German international Marc-Andre ter Stegen. At this stage it seems Barcelona are merely keeping tabs on Krul’s situation. It is understood that Brighton manager Chris Hughton would like to keep Krul, but the goalkeeper is keen for first-team football. As such, the Dutchman is expected to leave, having played five cup games for the Seagulls last season. However, a move to former Champions League winners and current La Liga title-holders Barcelona would surely prove too tempting for Krul to turn down, even if he was to be second choice, should an offer materialise.