David De Gea could be blocked from Premier League return thanks to rare rule

De Gea has been linked with a move to Newcastle

Newcastle are reportedly interested in signing the Spaniard on a short-term deal as cover for Nick Pope - who is expected be out of action for at least four months following surgery on a shoulder injury sustained in the win against Manchester United.

De Gea has been a free agent since leaving United in the summer and is reportledy said to be open on a return to the Premier League however is wife is supposedly keen to stay in Spain.

Eddie Howe still has three goalkeepers in Martin Dubravka, Loris Karius and Mark Gillespie to select from and according to the Chronicle Live, Newcastle would require special dispensation from the top flight to sign him.

Premier League rules state that changes cannot be made to a squad list outside of a transfer window without the approval of the Premier League.

Similar incident has happened to Newcastle before

A similar incident happened last season involving Newcastle that allowed them to bring Karius on a short-term deal last season and he then played in the Carabao Cup final.

Karius' move required no permission from the Premier League as it was not deemed a squad list change.

Other reports have suggested that Howe is prepared to give Dubravka a run in the team as goalkeeper until January at least, where the club will then assess their options.

Related links:

• Newcastle should sign David De Gea to fill gap after Nick Pope injury
• Man United and Newcastle on alert as contract talks with France No.1 stall
• Newcastle draw up shortlist to replace Sandro Tonali