This has been a busy period for Newcastle United, there is no doubt about that. And things do not look to be getting any less hectic over the final weeks of the summer transfer window, as they need to strengthen in a number of areas across the pitch.
The midfield will be in particular focus. Sandro Tonali has left. Bruno Guimaraes looks to be closing in on a move to Arsenal. Joelinton and Joe Willock could leave as well. So, the Magpies will need to sign midfielders.
One area where they seem to have successfully strengthened is between the posts. The club recently announced the signing of Lukas Hornicek from SC Braga.
The Czech international is expected to be the new number one between the posts. Fellow summer signing Ewen Jaouen could be his backup. And that opens up the door for an exit.
Newcastle United tipped to green light exit
According to The Shields Gazette, Hornicek’s arrival will see Newcastle United green light Nick Pope’s departure. But a potential suitor is yet to materialise.
Pope had been heavily linked with a move to Ipswich Town earlier in the summer. But the Premier League newcomers have already signed a couple of goalkeepers in recent weeks. So, will they still want the Newcastle United veteran?
Leeds United were another club believed to hold an interest in Pope. But they are said to be closing in on a move for Manchester City’s James Trafford. So, once again, their need might have been fulfilled.
Interestingly, Hull City had agreed a deal to sign Hornicek earlier this summer but the player turned down the move. Could the Tigers now make a move for Pope? Or is it just a case of the rumour mill putting two and two together in the game of transfer dominoes?
Time for Nick Pope to move on
Pope has done a very good job over the years for Newcastle United and deserves a ton of credit for the club’s achievements in these past four years. That being said, it might be time to move on.
He is 34 years old now and has only a year left on his current contract. On top of that, Newcastle United have signed two new goalkeepers this summer.
So, it is safe to say that Pope would struggle for playing time if he stayed on and would be a cover option at best. Naturally, if he still has aspirations of playing at the top level, he should move on.
Even at 34 years of age, he has the ability to start games and can be a decent short-term fix for many clubs. Let’s see if some or any of them come calling.
