Jurgen Klopp's 'best player' glowing praise for Newcastle United transfer target

Newcastle United are closing in on signing Nottingham Forest goalkeeper Odysseas Vlachodimos.

The 30-year-old was born in Germany but represents Greece at international level and moved to the Premier League back in September 2023. With Elliot Anderson set for a big-money move to Forest, Vlachodimos could come the other way, and is likely to help provide extra cover for Nick Pope.

Eddie Howe's men have been linked with a whole host of goalkeepers ever since Loris Karius' exit was confirmed from the club. Fellow shot-stopper Martin Dubravka is also likely to depart given his desire to play first-team football next season.

READ MORE: The eight Newcastle United exits that could happen today as Premier League pressure sparks fear

READ MORE: Newcastle United on brink of record sale and open talks with international goalkeeper

Vlachodimos comes well-recommended after strong spells at Benfica and Panathinaikos, with he always experienced in the UEFA Champions League too. The former Stuttgart man started in goal for Benfica against Liverpool back in the 2022 edition, keeping the score at a somewhat respectable 3-1 at Anfield.

Despite Liverpool's eventual progression, Jurgen Klopp admitted his side could have scored more if not for the heroics of Vlachodimos on the night. Newcastle's aspirations are of course to return to European football next season and it is satisfying to know that members of their squad are up to the test should they be called upon.

"We should have scored much more," Klopp told BT Sport after his side's victory. "I think, mainly because of their goalkeeper, credit to him. Their goalkeeper was probably the game's best player. We played well, but he made a couple of really good saves."