Oydsseas Vlachodimos is set to be frozen out of Newcastle United’s squad despite only joining the club this summer, according to reports.
The Greek stopper became Newcastle’s most expensive-ever goalkeeper when he arrived from Nottingham Forest for £20m.
However, the move was always a strange one given Nick Pope’s status as undisputed No.1 at St. James’ Park.
Although technically a separate deal, it’s understood the purchase of Vlachodimos was tied to Elliot Anderson going the other way to the City Ground in a bid for both clubs to help balance their books.
But Vlachodimos hasn’t just failed to play for Newcastle so far; he hasn’t even been named to a competitive matchday squad, with his only action for the club so far 45 minutes in a pre-season friendly against Brest.
Vlachodimos already told he can leave Newcastle
?? #NUFC have completed the signing of goalkeeper Odysseas Vlachodimos from Nottingham Forest.
Welcome, Odysseas! ??
— Newcastle United FC (@NUFC) June 30, 2024
According to The Athletic, Vlachodimos won’t be in the squad to face Wolves on Sunday, either.
Their report states that the 44-time Greece international has been told he can leave Newcastle in January having already declined a departure almost immediately after arriving this summer.
Unless a major injury crisis hits Eddie Howe, Newcastle will now be left with a goalkeeper earning £50,000 per week (per Capology) but destined not to play a single competitive minute.
Newcastle can only hope that Vlachodimos’ time on the sidelines won’t serve to put off any potential suitors this January.
