With numerous Premier League teams getting ready to target the custodian this summer, Nick Pope's stay at Newcastle United seems to be drawing to an end. Former Manchester United and Sunderland senior scout Mick Brown claims Newcastle is open to accepting offers in the range of £10–15 million for the 32-year-old, who has been a major player at St James's Park since his arrival in 2022.
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Newcastle has been looking at long-term replacements in response to Pope's recurrent injuries, which include a seven-game absence early this season and a longer 29-game stretch on the sidelines. Brown thinks Pope's reputation as a former England international and his proven Premier League expertise will generate major interest despite these reservations.
Having a lot of knowledge about player recruitment, Brown said Football Insider that teams in need of a goalkeeper will be lining up for Pope. He remarked, "£10-15 million seems like a reasonable asking price for him."
"It looks likely now that he will be leaving because like I say, at that price there’s going to be interest. Whether that’s the promoted clubs, or even current Premier League sides looking to upgrade."Mick Brown, Football Insider
Pope's absence from recent England teams and a minor decline in form have not discouraged possible suitors; his shot-stopping power and leadership qualities remain much sought after.
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Newcastle’s Replacement Plans
Newcastle already expects life without Pope, and Burnley's James Trafford is a key target. Newcastle scouts have extensively watched the 21-year-old, who resembles Everton's Jordan Pickford in terms of reflexes and distribution, this season. Should Burnley fail to get promotion from the Championship, a move for Trafford could be simple.
Newcastle is concentrated on finding a qualified replacement to guarantee a seamless transition as Pope gets closer to leaving. Although Pope's leaving symbolises the end of an era, the club's proactive attitude emphasises their goal to assemble a team able of contending at the top level.
For now, Pope remains a key player for Newcastle, but the summer transfer window could see a new face between the sticks at St James’ Park.