Over the last few weeks, all the talk surrounding Newcastle United has been about key players potentially leaving and the club finding ways to prevent that from happening. Sandro Tonali and Bruno Guimaraes are the two names which come to mind immediately.
Those two are not the only ones who could be headed for the exit door though. And in some cases, the Magpies might not even be opposed to the idea of a departure.
There are certain positions where the club clearly need to improve next season. A 12th-place finish in the Premier League clearly points towards that.
The good news is that Newcastle United have already made progress in that aspect. Ewen Jaouen was signed from Ligue 2 side Reims for a big transfer fee. But that could mean the end of the road for another player.
Leeds Utd register interest in Newcastle United player
According to a report from the Football Insider, Leeds United have registered their interest in a move for Nick Pope this summer. Newcastle United are believed to be looking for a transfer fee around the £10-12 million mark for the 34-year-old goalkeeper.
Newcastle United have already added Jaouen, as I have already mentioned. But that might not be the end of the story. It is also believed that the club want to bring in James Trafford from Manchester City.
Trafford might be the number two option at Manchester City behind Gianluigi Donnarumma but he is good enough to start in most other Premier League teams. So, if the Magpies end up signing him, it would push Pope further down the pecking order.
So, a move away from St James’ Park might be best for all parties involved. Leeds United are believed to be looking for a new number one. At 34 years of age, not many other clubs might provide Pope with that opportunity. So, it all fits.
Why it is time for Nick Pope to leave St James’ Park
Pope joined Newcastle United in 2022 and has played a key part in the club’s successes since then. But, now at 34 years of age, it might be time for the two to part ways.
Obviously, Newcastle United should always be grateful for his contributions to the club over the years. It is important recognition when the time for change has come though.
Someone like Trafford would simply be a long-term solution between the posts for the next decade. On the other hand, Pope has a year left on his contract and is 34.
So, it is a rather simple choice to make if you take the emotions out of it. Do not expect to see Pope at Newcastle United beyond this summer, if the club are able to sign Trafford or another starting-level goalkeeper.
