Nick Pope has made feelings clear about Leeds United move, it could impact Newcastle’s £40m transfer plans..
Nick Pope has been linked with a move to Leeds United as both the Whites and Newcastle United look to sign a new goalkeeper.
The England international is the undisputed No.1 under Eddie Howe on Tyneside, making 28 Premier League starts last season, but the Magpies feel there is room for improvement in between the sticks.
Newcastle have held talks to sign James Trafford from Burnley after his immense 2024/25 campaign, in which he kept 29 clean sheets in 45 Championship appearances, conceding only 16 goals.
In regards to Leeds, Illan Meslier failed to cover himself in glory last term, and was even dropped by Daniel Farke in April as the Frenchman made several costly errors and looked likely to cost the Whites in their promotion battle, losing his place to Karl Darlow – who left Newcastle for Elland Road in July 2023.
Now, sources have shared information with TBR Football regarding the stance of Nick Pope as Leeds attempt to sign the Newcastle No.22 this summer.
Nick Pope wants to stay at Newcastle United
Graeme Bailey – Chief Correspondent at TBR Football – now has the following to say on the matter.
“(Despite interest from Leeds) Nick Pope doesn’t want to leave Newcastle United. He thinks he’s still capable of playing.
“He’s known that they’ve wanted Trafford since last summer. Newcastle are refusing to pay the £40m that Burnley would need – at least £40m – to get him.
“It’s not that Eddie Howe doesn’t love Pope, he just thinks they can improve in that area. When you become title challengers, it’s the 1% or 2% here and there that can improve you. That’s where Newcastle are interested in improving.”
Pope kept eight clean sheets and conceded 35 goals in his 28 Premier League appearances last term, helping Newcastle finish fifth.
James Trafford alternative for Newcastle has slipped away as Leeds pursue Nick Pope
Trafford was not the only goalkeeper being monitored by the Magpies, as TBR Football understand Newcastle made Joan Garcia an offer recently.
The Spaniard also received proposals from Aston Villa and Arsenal.
However, Garcia has now joined Barcelona after the Spanish giants triggered his £21.3m release clause, which is sure to only strengthen Burnley’s negotiating position over Trafford.
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