Eddie Howe wants a successful outcome from Newcastle United's talks with Martin Dubravka this week.

Reports in Saudi Arabia suggest that Dubravka's move to Al-Shabab has been cancelled and Howe - who confirmed that talks for a new deal have started - now wants a "successful outcome" from discussions to hand the 35-year-old a improved contract. Dubravka has been in sizzling form lately and has been a big part of the Magpies' seven-game winning streak in all competitions.

Al-Shabab thought they'd struck a deal for the former Sparta Prague star but their hopes have now been dented. Despite appearing to say farewell at Arsenal, Howe stated he is still very much a Newcastle player.

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Howe, speaking at his Press conference, said: "Nothing has changed, I have no updates to give you. It is business as usual for Martin.

"I think Martin has been in a difficult situation, any player that is coming out of contract. He naturally wants a conclusion to his contract Hopefully, we can come to some type of agreement with him. Martin has never said he wants to leave.

"I know how much Newcastle means to him. He's been a very, very good professional for us. It's difficult when Nick is playing and Martin isn't. He had to stay ready.

"He's performed well and that's down to his training levels. Whatever the weather, he's there. You can see what Newcastle means to him emotionally. All these things will be playing a part for him."

Despite Dubravka's action after the full-time whistle after the Carabao Cup semi-final first leg at Emirates Stadium. Howe hopes that the stopper's future will soon be resolved.

Howe said: "I think it will help that the team is in a good moment and he's in a good moment. He knows he's a part of that. The main focus is on Martin's future. We need to clear that up with just six months left on his contract. I'm not totally up to date [with contract situation] with everything so I don't want to tell you any lies but talks are ongoing.

"He's been a very good professional for us. He's come into the team and compliments to him because it's difficult for a goalkeeper. "When Nick was playing he wasn't, he had to stay ready and had to stay focused. I know how much Newcastle means to him and you can see that.

"Emotionally he's very invested. All those things will be playing a part into his decision making and our decision making. Hopefully there's a successful outcome at the end."

The need for Dubravka to stay becomes even more apparent given that Nick Pope will not be back for the next clutch of games.

Speaking on Pope's return, Howe said: "Nick is not far away. He has been diving and kicking and has done a lot. I think there is a bit longer needed before his knee is strong enough. He will be back after this intense run of games."