Nick Pope has been tipped to end up at Leeds United this summer, with Newcastle United facing another goalkeeper decision as the market starts to move.
Former Everton chief executive Keith Wyness has told Football Insider that Leeds are favourites for Pope, although he framed the deal around Leeds first moving Lucas Perri on for a possible fee in the region of GBP10m to GBP12m.
The report says Ipswich Town are also interested, but Wyness expects Leeds to be best placed if Daniel Farke’s side clear room in their goalkeeping department.
Pope future still matters for Newcastle
For Newcastle, the claim lands at an awkward point in the summer. Pope is 34, remains an experienced Premier League goalkeeper, and has been part of Eddie Howe’s strongest period at St James’ Park. But Newcastle have already added Ewen Jaouen and continue to be linked with James Trafford, which makes the hierarchy’s long-term plan in goal impossible to ignore.
The key point is that this is still a claim rather than a completed deal. Pope has not been confirmed as leaving Newcastle, and the Leeds route appears dependent on their own sales.
Even so, the story should sharpen attention on Newcastle’s next move. If another senior goalkeeper arrives, Pope’s role changes quickly. If not, Howe may still need the England international’s reliability while the club beds in its younger options.
