Newcastle United are fighting off interest from all corners for their England Under-19 goalkeeper Freddie Woodman after Southampton joined the race to sign the 18-year-old. Arsenal are also known to be interested in Woodman - as are Crystal Palace, with former Toon boss Alan Pardew keeping tabs on the youngster's situation. The son of Newcastle goalkeeping coach Andy Woodman, who Pardew wanted to take with him to Palace, the shot-stopper could be tempted by a move to the south coast or to London because he was originally brought up in the area. However, Newcastle will be keen to hold on to a youngster who is seen by many as a future full England international. According to The Chronicle, Southampton have been scouting Woodman during Newcastle's Under-21 matches this season and have been impressed by his abilities. The Magpies have aimed to put off suitors by tying Woodman down to a long-term contract, but his undoubted potential means that clubs will continue to sniff around. Woodman has regularly been on the bench this season due to the injuries suffered by Tim Krul and Rob Elliot - and he is seen by the Magpies coaching staff as the long-term successor between the sticks for Newcastle. For all the latest NUFC News, Views and Transfers make sure to follow WhatCultureNUFC on Twitter and Facebook.
NUFC editor for WhatCulture.com/NUFC. History graduate (University of Edinburgh) and NCTJ-trained journalist. I love sports, hopelessly following Newcastle United and Newcastle Falcons. My pastimes include watching and attending sports matches religiously, reading spy books and sampling ales.
