Newcastle to accelerate Bart Verbruggen deal despite 'bizarre' World Cup incident - verdict

Brighton star Bart Verbruggen remains on the radar at Newcastle United as the search for a new goalkeeper continues.

While Eddie Howe has already added Ewen Jaouen to the squad, the 20-year-old's lack of experience in major leagues makes him a far better candidate for the back-up position.

James Trafford and Robin Risser are both still being considered, but it would appear that the Seagulls' No.1 is edging closer to a move to St James' Park.

With the Netherlands now out of the 2026 World Cup, losing to Morocco on penalties on Tuesday, 30 June, an accelerated deal could be on the cards.

It wasn't all doom and gloom for the Dutch goalkeeper, though. Without him, Morocco may have even qualified in normal time.

Voetbal Primeur (30 June) labelled him "exceptional" after the "match of his life," a performance which earned him a 9 out of 10 rating at the World Cup.

Bart Verbruggen in 'bizarre' penalty moment vs Morocco

The Magpies should view any deal for Verbruggen as a no-brainer now, even if he had a late hiccup, one that confused many on the international stage.

The Brighton star appeared set to save Soufiane Rahimi's spot-kick during the shootout, only for the effort to somehow find the back of the net.

He had kept the inital shot out before hitting the ball into the goal with the back of his own heel, being labelled a "bizarre moment" by Sport Nieuws.

Still, his overall performance was one of the best on the pitch, and Newcastle can't allow his penalty mishap to cloud their transfer judgement this summer.

Howe will be desperate for another goalkeeper in his ranks, and the talented 23-year-old, formerly of Anderlecht, looks like the perfect fit.

What do the stats say about Newcastle's target?

With Football Insider understanding that Ipswich Town could sign Nick Pope ahead of next season, a deal could soon be completed.

In 120 minutes, Verbruggen made five saves, preventing 1.23 goals, while completing 61 per cent of his passes and making eight recoveries [FotMob].

Sadly, he won't have any further chances to prove himself at this summer's tournament, but he certainly gave a good account against Morocco.

That should only open the door for the Magpies to complete a deal, which should be one of Howe's biggest priorities ahead of 2026-27.